Handbrake shoes — inspection and replacement (Opel Omega A)

1. Remove the rear brake discs as described in Chapter 7.

2. Clean dust and dirt from the shoes, shield and inside the disc drum.

3. Check the thickness of the pads on the shoes and if it is less than that specified in Specifications, replace the shoes on both sides.

4. Also check the surface inside the drums. They should not normally be worn unless the handbrake is sticking.

5. Disconnect the return spring of the lever on the shield, then disconnect the handbrake cable.

6. Using a screwdriver, unscrew and remove the anti-rattle spring through the hole in the bushing flange (photo).

[Original posted on the website: opelbook]



7. Note the position of the brake shoes. Also note the position of the return springs.

8. Using a lever, remove the brake shoes from the adjuster and lever and disconnect the return springs (photo).





9. Remove the regulator and lever.



10. Clean the shield, springs, regulator.

11. Apply a small amount of brake lubricant to the adjuster threads, then tighten to minimum length.

12. Attach one brake shoe to the shield with the anti-rattle spring.

13. Install the lever correctly.

14. Install the remaining brake shoe and anti-rattle spring.

15. Hook the lower return spring onto the brake shoes.

16. Install the adjuster between the top ends of the shoes, then hook the upper return spring.

17. Install the handbrake cable and return spring to the rear of the shield.

18. Install the rear brake disc as described in Chapter 7, but do not install the wheel.

19. Repeat the procedure given in steps 5-18 on the opposite side of the vehicle.

20. To clamp the wheels in the center when assembling the shoes, clamp the wheel by tightening the bolts crosswise using shims approximately 10.0 mm thick.

21. At the end of the handbrake cable, completely loosen the cable adjustment nut on the handbrake lever rod.

22. On each rear disc, insert a screwdriver through the hole in the hub and turn the adjuster up until the disc/drum is secured. Back the adjuster out until the disc/drum turns freely (photo).



23. Install the rear wheels.



24. Lift the handbrake lever out of the opening to the sixth notch, then tighten the cable adjustment nut under the car until both rear wheels are locked. The adjustment nut is of the auto-lock type. Check the adjustment by releasing the lever and tightening the handbrake several times.

25. Lower the car to the ground.