1. Identify Brake Type (Drum or Disc):
* Drum brakes: These are older technology. You'll see a circular drum-shaped component on the rear wheel axle. Accessing the pads requires removing the drum.
* Disc brakes: These are more modern. You'll see a disc rotor bolted to the wheel hub. Access to the pads is usually simpler.
2. Gather Tools and Materials:
Regardless of brake type, you'll generally need:
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Socket set and wrenches: Sizes will vary depending on your car's specifics.
* C-clamp (for drum brakes): To compress the wheel cylinder.
* Brake cleaner: To clean surfaces.
* New rear brake pads: Make sure you get the correct ones for your Camaro's model.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself.
* Torque wrench (recommended): To tighten wheel nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Pliers or brake caliper piston compressor tool (for disc brakes): To compress the caliper piston.
3. Procedure (Disc Brakes - More Common on Later-Model 79 Camaros):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the front wheels, and jack up the rear of the car securely on jack stands.
2. Remove the wheel: Unscrew and remove the lug nuts, then take off the wheel.
3. Expose the caliper: You should see the brake caliper clamping onto the rotor.
4. Compress the caliper piston: Using a C-clamp or specialized piston compressor tool, carefully compress the caliper piston to create space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.
5. Remove the caliper: Some calipers may require removal of pins or bolts holding them to the caliper bracket. Consult a repair manual for your specific model.
6. Remove the old brake pads: Carefully slide out the old brake pads.
7. Clean the caliper and sliding surfaces: Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the caliper, piston, and the caliper bracket's sliding surfaces.
8. Install the new brake pads: Slide the new brake pads into place.
9. Reinstall the caliper: Make sure it slides smoothly and reattach any pins or bolts.
10. Reinstall the wheel: Tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification (consult your owner's manual).
11. Repeat for the other side: Repeat the process for the other rear wheel.
12. Lower the car: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
13. Pump the brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are properly seated.
4. Procedure (Drum Brakes - Less Common on Later-Model 79 Camaros):
1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from the Disc Brake instructions.
2. Remove the drum: Sometimes this requires some persuasion, as rust may be present. Tap gently around the perimeter with a hammer and a suitable tool to loosen the drum.
3. Remove the retaining clips: The brake shoes will be held in place by clips. Remove them.
4. Remove the old brake shoes: These are typically held in place by springs and other components.
5. Compress the wheel cylinder: Use a C-clamp to compress the wheel cylinder and create space for the new shoes. Be very careful not to damage the wheel cylinder.
6. Install the new brake shoes: Install the new shoes, making sure the springs and other components are properly positioned. Refer to a repair manual for specific details.
7. Reinstall the drum: Push the drum back onto the axle.
8. Reinstall the wheel: Tighten lug nuts to the correct torque.
9. Repeat for the other side and pump the brakes (as above).
Disclaimer: This is general guidance. Replacing brake pads can be complex and requires careful attention to detail. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1979 Chevrolet Camaro for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake repair can be dangerous.
