The rear brakes on the GM Grand Prix consists of a primary and secondary brake shoe, a self-adjuster and springs. The brake shoes wear over time. The springs also need replacing periodically, as they tend to lose their strength. There is no specific period in which the brakes need replacing. The wear of the brake shoes is relative to the amount of use, so a Grand Prix that sees a lot of highway miles will have brakes that last much longer than those on a car that is driven within the city.
Instructions
- 1
Place a set of wheel chocks in front of the front wheels of the Grand Am. Raise the rear of the Grand Am on the side you are starting with. Place a jack stand under the car near the jacking point and raise it to the frame of the car. Remove the wheel by loosening the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
2Mark the position of the brake drum to the wheel flange using the marking crayon. Pull the drum away from the wheel assembly. If the drum does not come off easily, strike the side of it several times with the rubber mallet to break it free. Remove the actuator spring from the lever using the brake tool. Do not damage the spring when you remove it.
3Remove the retractor spring from the adjuster assembly with the brake tool, taking care not to stretch it. Pry the retractor spring with the tool towards the axle until it snaps off the shoe web. Remove the adjusting shoe and liner assembly. Remove the adjuster actuator and adjusting screw from between the brake shoes.
4Disconnect the parking brake lever from the secondary shoe by unhooking it. Do not disconnect the cable from the lever unless you are going to replace it. Lift the end of the retractor spring from the adjuster shoe assembly using the brake tool. Pry the spring slightly with the brake tool to unhook it from the shoe.
5Depress the retainer spring with the pliers while turning it turn to release the brake shoes from the backing plate on the primary and secondary shoes. Thoroughly clean all brake parts using the brake cleaner and rags. Replace any springs that have damage with new ones.
6Disassemble the adjusting screw and lubricate it with a light coat of brake grease. Connect the parking brake lever to the secondary shoe. Place the new shoes on the backing plate and secure them with the retaining springs by pushing the springs in with the pliers and turning it turn to lock it into place. Place the self-adjuster between the brake shoes in the notches. Install the retractor spring using the brake tool.
7Install the U-shaped end of the actuator spring into the web of the brake shoes with the brake tool. Install the brake drum on the wheel assembly. Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the Grand Am. Lower the car to the ground. Repeat the procedure on the other side.
