Here's a general overview. This is NOT a complete, step-by-step guide and should be supplemented by a repair manual specific to your 1992 Caprice Classic. Repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton) provide detailed instructions and diagrams.
Tools You'll Need (at minimum):
* Jack and jack stands (essential for safety)
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric) with extensions and ratchets
* Brake caliper piston compressor tool (crucial for compressing the caliper piston)
* C-clamp (can sometimes be used instead of a specialized compressor tool)
* Pliers
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New rear brake shoes, wheel cylinders, hardware (springs, clips, etc.) - always replace parts in pairs (both sides). Consider replacing the drums if they're excessively worn or scored.
* Torque wrench (to tighten lug nuts to the correct specification)
* Gloves
* Safety glasses
General Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Raise the rear of the car securely using the jack and place it on jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Inspect the Brake Drum: Inspect the brake drum for excessive wear, scoring, or cracks. If necessary, replace it. Some drums can be removed by simply hitting them lightly with a mallet from the side. Others might need to be tapped out using specialized drum pullers (available for rent at most auto parts stores).
4. Remove the Brake Drum: Once the drum is off, you'll see the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and associated hardware.
5. Inspect the Wheel Cylinders: Check the wheel cylinders for leaks. It's highly recommended to replace them when changing shoes. Leaking wheel cylinders are a major cause of brake failure.
6. Remove the Brake Shoes: Carefully remove the old brake shoes, noting the location and orientation of all springs, clips, and other hardware. Take pictures if needed.
7. Compress the Wheel Cylinders: Using the piston compressor tool, carefully compress the wheel cylinder pistons. This is necessary to allow the new shoes to be installed.
8. Install New Wheel Cylinders (if necessary): If replacing the wheel cylinders, install the new ones. Be careful not to damage the seals. Some might require bleeding afterward.
9. Install New Brake Shoes: Install the new brake shoes, ensuring that all springs and clips are correctly positioned. Refer to your repair manual for the precise arrangement.
10. Install the Brake Drum: Carefully install the brake drum.
11. Install the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts. Do not overtighten.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
13. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
14. Bleed the Brakes (Possibly): If you replaced the wheel cylinders, you'll likely need to bleed the brakes to remove any air from the lines. This is a critical step to restore proper braking function. A friend to help is usually necessary for bleeding brakes.
15. Test the Brakes: Test the brakes carefully in a safe, open area. If the brakes feel spongy or abnormal, you likely have air in the lines and need to bleed them again.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: This is crucial. Pictures and diagrams will help you immensely.
* Safety: Always prioritize safety. Working on brakes is serious business; a mistake can have fatal consequences.
* Parts: Ensure you're using the correct parts for your specific vehicle.
* Bleeding: Proper brake bleeding is essential for safe and effective braking.
This is a simplified overview. A detailed repair manual specific to your 1992 Caprice Classic is strongly recommended. If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic. Improperly installed brakes can be extremely dangerous.
