Here's a general outline of the process. This is not a substitute for a factory service manual specific to your 1999 Dodge Dakota. Consult a repair manual for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams specific to your vehicle's year, model, and engine.
Tools You'll Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including metric.
* Wrench set: Various sizes, including metric.
* Brake cylinder compression tool: Crucial for compressing the pistons.
* Brake cleaner: To clean parts thoroughly.
* New rear brake wheel cylinders: Get the correct ones for your Dakota.
* New brake shoes (likely): They'll likely need replacing along with the cylinders. The old shoes will be worn.
* New hardware (likely): Nuts, bolts, and clips may be damaged during removal.
* Penetrating oil: To loosen rusted bolts.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Chock the front wheels, engage the parking brake, and use jack stands to securely lift the rear of the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Drum: The drum should slide off the axle. If it's stuck, use a drum puller (available at auto parts stores). Be careful not to damage the drum.
4. Inspect Brake Shoes: Assess the condition of the brake shoes. They'll almost certainly need replacing if the wheel cylinders are failing.
5. Remove the Old Wheel Cylinders: You'll need to loosen the retaining nuts or bolts holding the wheel cylinders in place. This may require penetrating oil if they're rusted. Carefully disconnect the brake lines. Be prepared for brake fluid to leak. Have rags ready to absorb the fluid.
6. Compress the Brake Pistons: Use the brake cylinder compression tool to push the pistons back into the wheel cylinders. This prevents fluid from spraying out when you disconnect the lines.
7. Install New Wheel Cylinders: Install the new wheel cylinders, ensuring they're seated correctly. Replace any damaged hardware.
8. Install New Brake Shoes (if needed): Install new brake shoes, following the instructions for your vehicle. Ensure they're properly adjusted.
9. Reconnect Brake Lines: Carefully reconnect the brake lines. Avoid kinks or damage.
10. Bleed the Brakes: This is crucial. After reconnecting the brake lines, you'll need to bleed the brakes to remove air from the system. This usually involves opening the bleeder valves on the calipers (or wheel cylinders in this case) one at a time while someone pumps the brake pedal. Refer to your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure.
11. Reassemble: Reinstall the brake drum, wheel, and lug nuts. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
12. Test the Brakes: Carefully test the brakes, making sure they function correctly. If there's any issue, you need to repeat the process or seek professional help.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid is Hazardous: Brake fluid is corrosive and can damage paint. Clean up any spills immediately.
* Bleeding the Brakes is Crucial: Air in the brake lines can lead to brake failure. Do this carefully and thoroughly.
* Torque Specifications: Always follow the manufacturer's torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. Over-tightening can damage components.
* Consult a Repair Manual: This information is for general guidance only. Refer to a factory service manual for your specific vehicle for detailed instructions and diagrams.
Replacing rear brake cylinders is a serious job. If you're uncomfortable with any part of this process, it's strongly recommended that you take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake failure can have deadly consequences.
