Fiesta's brakes are a bit squealy so they need inspection and maybe replacing. Has anyone done this job and are there any surprises I need to prepare myself for?
The best thing to do is inspect the brake shoes first as they may not need changing if there is still plenty of lining left on them. If this is the case then just remove the brake shoes and rub some smooth sand paper over the surface of the lining to rough the surface up slightly as the shiny surface can cause brake squeal and do the same with the internal circumference of the brake drums as well. Also make sure that the slots either end where the brake shoes locate are clean from dirt etc. and brush out with a soft paint brush any loose dirt as this can cause vibration if the shoes are not seating properly. When you replace either new or the existing brake shoes some people will adjust them independently but the proper way to do it is to put the tralier on axle stands so both wheels are off the ground and adjust them exactly the same then as you slightly apply the handbrake the brake shoes should apply simultaneously and you can check this by spinning each wheel so if one starts to go tight and the other is free then this will need the final adjustment till they apply at the same time. When the job is finished, release the handbrake and check that both trailer wheels are spinning freely. If they are not then it is just down to handbrake adjustment till you achieve the correct setting.
This Alko manual will give you some help. You will have to remove and replace the oneshot nut if removing the brake drums. You will require a big torque wrench.
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Topic: Fiesta brakes
