Need to replace rear brake backing plate

[broncojunkie]

The parking brake cable broke and I also finally have to replace the parking brake shoes. I've run into a few problems. I had 2 return two different cables because they were too short. Ended up having to order it from the dealer.

I finally got everything I need, but I have another problem. I got a new backing plate because mine is rusted too bad. I suppose I will need to pull the hub to replace it. Does this mean pulling the entire knuckle? Or, do I just remove the large nut and yank the outer hub off with a puller? I've never messed with this before and not sure how to go about it.

 

[ponkotsu]

The parking brake cable broke and I also finally have to replace the parking brake shoes. I've run into a few problems. I had 2 return two different cables because they were too short. Ended up having to order it from the dealer.

I finally got everything I need, but I have another problem. I got a new backing plate because mine is rusted too bad. I suppose I will need to pull the hub to replace it. Does this mean pulling the entire knuckle? Or, do I just remove the large nut and yank the outer hub off with a puller? I've never messed with this before and not sure how to go about it.

You need to remove the bearing which is no picnic. And will probably require a new bearing and hub in the process. Alternatively, I think some guys just cut the backing plate in half and install an extra screw. Seems like the plate might be intentionally made for this because there is a score line on it, and an extra bolt hole in the knuckle and backing plate.

If you install it intact, you definitely need to remove the knuckle completely. If you've never done this before, I'd suggest bringing it to a shop that has the equipment to remove the bearing and press in a new one.

 

[imp]

If I remember correctly, this "backing plate" is nothing more than a splash and stone guard. Not a big thing if you cut it in two. Seems like I did. Forgetful in old age! imp

 

[broncojunkie]

The parking brake cable assembly and parking brake shoes mount to this plate if I'm not mistaken. I think I'll take it to a shop. Not scared of a challenge... it's just that it's bow season.

Thanks for the quick replies!

 

[ponkotsu]

If I remember correctly, this "backing plate" is nothing more than a splash and stone guard. Not a big thing if you cut it in two. Seems like I did. Forgetful in old age! imp

No, it's the backing plate for the shoes and springs. Needs to be in good shape for the parking brake to work correctly.

 

[imp]

No, it's the backing plate for the shoes and springs. Needs to be in good shape for the parking brake to work correctly.

Thank you! I may have been thinking of the front wheel assembly. imp

Edit: Now that you mention that cable, I recall having a HELLUVA (good) time detaching and reattaching it!

 

[ponkotsu]

Thank you! I may have been thinking of the front wheel assembly. imp

Edit: Now that you mention that cable, I recall having a HELLUVA (good) time detaching and reattaching it!

Oh yes, that *#&$& brake cable. First one was a real pain. Second time it wasn't nearly so bad.

First thing, go over to the left side of the vehicle and unhook the cable. It's right under the driver door. That gives you some slack to work with.

What I did was take a few plastic wire ties and use them to compress the spring nice and tight so I could maneuver the cable out. Wasn't really that bad after I figured that out. Maybe someday I'll buy the proper spring compressor tool.

Disassembling the springs and shoes with the hub still on is a real pain also. Just have to pry everything out. Reassembling with the hub off is a piece of cake. Can't imagine reassembling with the hub still in place. It would be a real knuckle buster.

If you ever change the bearings, don't forget to put the backing plate on first. I've read a couple people that forgot.

 

[Onuma]

Old thread, but I'll add something [hopefully worthwhile] to the discussion.

This morning I replaced my rear brakes; rotors, shoes, and pads. The calipers were solid and functional, fortunately. Everything works great. I check my brakes while moving in Drive and Reverse, just to be sure.

The problem: I noticed a spot on my driver's side backing plate where either a parking brake shoe, or the rotor itself had worn a groove. The metal was clean & smooth in this one arc, about 6-8 inches in length, in a concentric groove which lined up with where the "drum" portion of the rotor starts, give or take.

My new parts went in rather easily, but the new rotors seem to be about 1/4" deeper than the old ones, due to a sort of flange which sticks out from the inner side of the drum part. While the old parts didn't make any noise the new driver's side wheel has a distinct scraping noise, much like you'd hear from a machinist's lathe or mill. Definitely metal-on-metal, and probably due to this flange coming in contact with the backing plate.

So my question is this: is it possible to safely bend the portion of the plate which is rubbing to stop it from contacting the inner flange on the rotor? The steel seems pretty springy, so I don't know how well it would hold shape once pried away. I'm guessing it only needs about 1/8-1/4" more room for clearance.

I understand that this could potentially risk debris and contaminants getting into the parking brake, but I'd just like to know if it can be done at my own risk. I'd rather not go through the rigmarole of replacing the entire plate, as discussed earlier in this thread.

 

[Onuma]

Update:

My trick worked. I simply grabbed some vise grips and a pry bar (AKA large screwdriver) and bent the backing plate away from the rotor about 1/8".

My suspicions were correct. The rotors are slightly deeper due to that extra lip on the inside, which caused it to rub. Persuading the metal wasn't difficult at all. 10 minute fix, including the test drive to ensure the noise was gone.

It may not work in every situation, but this time it is good to go.