Started trying to put the p-brake back together tonight - the previous posts I read did not exaggerate the frustration that this can cause (although I thought they did before I started).  The previous posts had great info that I'm using, but curious about the best sequence to use for installing all the springs.  I was able to do the top spring first and clamshell the shoes around the hub.  They both pivot out now although when I do that they disengage from the actuator lever and I have to wiggle them back in to place.  I'm thinking I should do the side springs next and save the bottom spring and adjuster for last.  Will the side springs have enough give to get the bottom spring and adjuster installed?  

      I can see the tools flyin across the shop already!!
 "I don't NEED no stinkin PARKING BRAKE!!"

I don't recall off-hand what order I do them in....prolly 'cause it's different every time I do it. I'm pretty sure you can insert the lower adjuster with the side springs in place. Have you tried wedging something in between the shoes and the hub while attempting to install the springs? That will keep the shoes from flopping outward....

Just for grins, Dave, I'm sending you a PDF file on the brakes....might help, might not, but ya never know...

|UPDATED|4/24/2013 9:56:56 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|

Joel

Putting the bottom spring and adjuster on last worked for me. After much

Thanks for the info and confirmation that I'm on the right track, everyone.  It's helpful to know that this seems to be a frustrating job for everyone that does it, not just me!  Joel, thanks for sending the .pdf.  It's helpful, but I'm surprised at the lack of parking brake info in the service manual.  

Victory dance - one side done!   Combination of all the help from youse guys and my small fingers.  Only out there for about a half hour tonight.  Tomorrow: other side.  Thanks again for the help, all!

   
I've never even looked in the Service manual, that I can remember....the PDF I sent was a page from the old Mitchell manuals. I guess now I need to look in the Service manuals I have and see what they have on the P-brake....yer prolly right...not much!

From what I remember the second side took me about half the time and half the blue language that  the first took.  The hardest part is over the other side will be easier.

Other side done! For the most part it was quicker except for the fact that the second side adjuster slots should have been cleaned out BEFORE I tried to put it together! Lesson learned ( one among many). I may write up some of my lessons an post soon. Oh and I had plenty of blue language going on - both sides. Good thing the kiddos were already in bed.