Rear brake shoe lining check (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)

1 Due to the fact that the rear brake drums are combined with the hubs, which makes removal of the drums more complicated than is the case with detachable drums, inspection of the shoe linings can be carried out at the specified intervals by prising out the small inspection plug from the brake backplate and observing the linings through the hole using a mirror (see illustrations).

17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate
17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate

17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror
17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror

2 A minimum thickness of friction material must always be observed on the shoes. If it is worn down to this level, renew the shoes.

3 Do not attempt to re-line shoes yourself but always obtain factory re-lined shoes.

4 Renew the shoes in an axle set (four shoes), even if only one is worn to the minimum.

    See also:

    Rear suspension angles - general
    The rear wheel toe and camber angles are set in production and do not require checking under normal service conditions. Of the two, only the toe setting can be adjusted, the camber angle being fix ...

    Expansion tank and coolant level sensor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 With the engine cold, slowly unscrew the expansion tank cap to release any remaining pressure from the cooling system. Remove the cap. 2 Place a suitable container beneath the expansio ...

    Crankshaft front oil seal - renewal
    1.8 litre (R2A type) 1 Remove the timing belt and the crankshaft sprocket and thrustwasher. 2 Withdraw the oil seal using an oil seal removal tool or by drilling the oil seal outer face and using ...