Cutlass Ciera V6-3300 3.3L MFI VIN N (1993)
Brake Shoe: Description and Operation
Leading/Trailing Brake Components
This drum brake assembly is an advanced leading/trailing shoe design. The advanced design operates with less total parts yet its performance is
equivalent to other drum brakes while providing improved reliability. The operation and servicing of the advanced design brake is much simpler
than traditional drum brakes.
It employs a single universal spring to hold both shoe and lining assemblies to the backing plate and also act as the retractor spring for both shoe
and lining assemblies. When the brakes are applied, the wheel cylinder moves both shoes out to contact the drum. With forward wheel rotation, the
leading brake shoe wraps into the drum and becomes self-energized. With reverse wheel rotation, the trailing brake shoe is self-energized. Force
from the brake shoes is transferred through the fixed anchor and backing plate to the axle flange. Adjustment is automatic and occurs on any
service brake application. Also, with leading/trailing brakes, it is normal for the leading (front shoe) to wear at a faster rate than the trailing (rear
shoe). Do not switch the position of shoes that have been in service as this may render the self adjustment feature inoperative and result in
increased pedal travel.
