How to Reattach Spring on Drum Brake?

[Bill Jewell]

I am in the process of installing new wheel brake cylinders on the rear wheels of my 1930 Franklin. I have the new cylinder installed, but what is the trick to getting the brake shoe spring reattached? Is there some special tool used for this? If so, can someone please send me a photo of it?

Thanks!

Bill

[oldford]

I use a pair of good vise grips. Clamp onto the straight section of the spring and pull like .....

Frank

[JFranklin]

I use Vise grips also but you can get a brake spring tool cheap at your local auto parts express, Pep Boys, Sears & Etc.

[rick60]

Wear safety glasses. A friend of mine was blinded in one eye using pliers to install a brake spring.

[Rusty_OToole]

There is a special tool but I usually pry them on with a big screwdriver. Hook the spring to the shoe, stick the screwdriver thru the end of the spring, put the screwdriver on the pin, pry the spring over until it slides down the screwdriver and onto the pin. There is a bit of a knack to it but once you get the hang of it you can put the spring on in 2 seconds.

[Guest Commodore]

Here are two brake tools that make this job easier.

Brake spring tool

Brake spring pliers