[Healeys] Drum Brake springs

[Patrick and Caroline Quinn]

G'day John

I have always found this a challenge because it's something that's not done
very often.

It takes me a few moments to remember that the easiest way is to use a hefty
and long screwdriver between the top shoe, backing plate and bearing hub to
lever the shoe up and away from the cylinder. Be careful not to pinch the
rubber boot.

Then once it's free of the cylinder slot, pull the shoe towards you and let
go some of the tension so that it is then free and below the top of the
cylinder. Then it's a matter of jiggling the spring free. 

Repeat with the bottom shoe, but opposite of course.

By the way it's easy to jam your fingers, so be wary.

Hoo Roo

Patrick Quinn
Sydney, Australia

-----Original Message-----
From: healeys-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:healeys-bounces at autox.team.net]
On Behalf Of John Roesle
Sent: Sunday, 8 July 2012 12:56 PM
To: Healeys at Autox.Team.Net
Subject: [Healeys] Drum Brake springs

Folks,
 
I feel stupid for asking such a basic question but is there a special
tool or technique for removing the retaining springs on Healey front drums? 
Tried needle nose pliers but could not get enough twist to release them.

John
Roesle
Shawnee, KS. 66227
913-687-1654
lostboys65 at yahoo.com