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:

    Central (single-point) Fuel Injection (CFI) system
    The system is best described by dividing it into four separate sub-systems: air, fuel, engine management (EEC IV system), and ignition. ...

    Boot lid (Saloon models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Open the boot lid, and place protective covers (old rags or cardboard) beneath the corners of the lid, and over the rear wings to prevent damage to the paintwork. 2 Where applicable, di ...

    Radio aerial (exteriormounted) - removal and refitting
    1 On models fitted with an electric aerial, disconnect the battery negative lead. Saloon and Estate models 2 Remove the right-hand side trim panel from the luggage compartment. 3 Working outside ...