Here's a general outline of the process. This is not a complete guide and should not be considered a substitute for a proper repair manual specific to your vehicle. Consult a Haynes or Chilton manual for your specific year and model for detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and safety precautions.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety)
* Wheel chocks
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Brake caliper tool (to compress the piston)
* C-clamp or similar tool (for compressing the piston if you don't have a specialized tool)
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New brake shoes (including parking brake shoes)
* New wheel cylinders (highly recommended, especially if you're already doing this work)
* New parking brake cables (inspect thoroughly, replace if necessary)
* New brake hardware kit (springs, clips, etc.)
* Grease
* Torque wrench
Procedure (General Outline):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the car securely using jack stands, and remove the wheels.
2. Inspect: Carefully inspect the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, parking brake cables, and all associated hardware. Look for wear, damage, leaks, or corrosion. Replace anything that's worn, damaged, or questionable. Leaking wheel cylinders are a common problem and should be replaced.
3. Remove the Brake Drums: Carefully remove the rear brake drums. They may be stuck due to rust; gently tap them with a rubber mallet.
4. Remove the Brake Shoes and Hardware: Once the drums are off, you'll see the brake shoes and the parking brake mechanism. Carefully note the position and arrangement of all springs, clips, and other hardware before removing them. Take pictures if it helps.
5. Clean: Thoroughly clean all components with brake cleaner. Wire brush any rusty or corroded areas.
6. Replace Wheel Cylinders (Highly Recommended): Remove the old wheel cylinders. Install the new wheel cylinders. Properly bleed the brakes after installing new wheel cylinders.
7. Install New Brake Shoes and Hardware: Install the new brake shoes and all associated hardware, ensuring everything is in the correct position. Refer to your repair manual for the proper arrangement.
8. Adjust Parking Brake: Adjust the parking brake cables according to your repair manual's instructions. This is often done with an adjuster located near the cable's attachment point on the rear of the brake assembly.
9. Reinstall the Brake Drums: Carefully reinstall the brake drums, ensuring they're seated properly.
10. Reinstall Wheels and Lower the Vehicle: Carefully reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
11. Bleed the Brakes: Bleed the rear brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system during the repair. This is crucial to ensure proper braking performance. A helper is recommended for this step.
12. Test: Test the brakes thoroughly in a safe, controlled environment, before driving the vehicle.
Important Notes:
* Consult a repair manual: This is crucial for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety information specific to your 1988 Honda Accord 2.0.
* Safety: Work in a safe, well-lit area. Always use jack stands and wheel chocks. Improper brake repair can be dangerous.
* Bleeding the brakes: Incorrectly bleeding brakes can lead to spongy brakes or no brakes at all.
* Parts: Use quality replacement parts. Don't skimp on safety.
This is a general overview. Again, do not attempt this repair without a detailed repair manual for your specific vehicle. If you're not comfortable with this level of mechanical work, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brakes are critical safety components.
