Brake Shoes and Cylinder leak problem

Hi all,

Just changed the brake shoes on my Def 90 today. First time ever. Every was ok, I'd fitted the new shoes - bitch with the springs(!!) - until I made the schoolboy error of wondering what would happen if I pressed the brake - would I see movement ?.... doh!

Piston popped out of the cylinder and I sprung a leak. I quickly whipped the shoes off again - yes... fighting with the springs again, hammered the end of the piston back home and pressed them into the cylinder.

In total I reckon the leak was only about an egg cup full if that.

Seeing as I'm a newb here, maybe someone could explain what went on? I presume pressing the brake caused brake fluid to be pumped into the cylinder, popping the piston out?

Q: Have I done any harm? Do I need to do anything to make sure I'm safe? I've test driven her and the new shoes (yes I did both rear) seem good. Feels fine to drive.

Oh - one further point - there were no retaining screws holding the drums on!! I know I'll have to go and pick some up but for now I'm driving without these ...

Thanks
BHOBW

....just bumping the thread cos it was late when I posted last night...

Can anyone help?

As there was no drum to retain the shoes then the piston travelled beyond where it should and you popped it. You should have topped up your fluid, made sure no fluid on the shoes, re-assembled then bled that cylinder at least. otherwise should be fine

Thanks for the reply. I thought that was it.

According to Haines bleeding is a two man job - is there a way one man can do it?

Ta
BHOBW

You can buy a little kit off ebay so that its a 1 man job..i'll try and find it..ang on.

There you go..theres loads of different types and prices..just write 'brake bleed' in the search..

brake bleeding kit one man brake bleeder & clutch bleed on eBay (end time 25-Aug-10 19:21:13 BST)

fantastic - thanks storm99 - didnt know they existed

BHOBW

You can make your own...but for a fiver who can be arsed.