Rear Brake Identification

[79Scott]

Hey Guys,
I was curious if there is an easy way to determine what side drums and shoes are on my '86 Silverado (2wd short box)? They keep locking up on me and I was just going to replace all the hardware in them. Trying to avoid pulling it apart and then waiting on parts.

Thanks

 

[Big Chip]

If they don’t work I’d say it’s a fair bet that they’re broken. That’s how I do it.

If the question is about brakes it should say on your SPID. It’s a J5 or J7 or something like that.

 

[79Scott]

They work, just seems when I back up and then put it in drive to move forward they lock up.

Thanks

 

[eskimomann209]

Based on how this was written I thought it was a question about the carrier breaks between the different series. But context clues told me he meant brake shoes.

SEE MOM TOLD YOU I COULD READ

 

[eskimomann209]

They work, just seems when I back up and then put it in drive to move forward they lock up.

Thanks

You're gunna have to look at them in my opinion. Dunno how long you have a had the truck, but I see a lotta stuff swapped on these old trucks. Most people decide it’s cheaper to swap than build a rear end. Most supply stores around here always have those drums n shoes. But you might need new cylinders. A bad line would cause them to stay out too. Rubber crumbles. Lets fluid in the cyl but not back out. There’s a rubber line above the diff. Unless they’re broken springs and what not should be fine. But first thing first. Open it up look at it. Then diagnose and buy parts accordingly.

 

[idahovette]

Could have an axle seal leak. In past experience 80-90 grabs or sticks and brake fluid will let em slide until it gets mixed with all the crud in the drum!!

 

[Keith Seymore]

Your truck should have a JB5 brake system (assuming it is still as designed by the factory).

K

 

[79Scott]

Thanks guys, I will tear into this weekend.

 

[84K30]

Any idea whether I would have 2.5” or 3.5” wide shoes on my SRW K30? Should be factory equipment.

 

[QBuff02]

Any idea whether I would have 2.5” or 3.5” wide shoes on my SRW K30? Should be factory equipment.

Your one ton will have the 3.5" brake shoes.

 

[84K30]

That’s what I thought. Thank you!