RWD drum brakes

[97ranger22bronco]

I'm redoing all brakes since the truck sat for 14 years, for the rears, should I replace the wheel cylinders on general principles along with shoes and drums?

 

[RobbieD]

As inexpensive as cylinders are, why not?

And you are buying a new hardware kit, right?

As long as you're replacing the cylinders, why not spring for the flex hose to the diff brake lines?

That's not "big money", just your labor while you're into it anyway. You'll basically have all-new rear brakes, and won't have to worry about it for a while.

That's just how I would look at it.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I'm the opposite. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. I've broken enough brake lines trying to unscrew the ends that I won't do them unless absolutely necessary.

 

[97ranger22bronco]

With it sitting for 14 years, I'm honestly not sure if they're broke or not, so i figured i'd replace everything so I don't have to take it apart again. @RobbieD I'm absolutely getting a new hardware kit; for the overall price point it's well worth it to have everything new.

 

[97ranger22bronco]

https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/brakebest-hardware-hydraulics/brakes/brake-hydraulics/brake-hose/b5f009f547f7/brakebest-19-3-4-inch-brake-hose/bhs0/bh38813/v/a/5528/automotive-truck-1997-ford-ranger?pos=0

it's this guy right?

 

[pjtoledo]

yes, but it's the steel line that attaches to it that breaks. the one that comes from the frame to the small end.
at least that's the way it happens up here in the rust belt.

 

[19Walt93]

I agree with the suggestion to replace the flex hose, I'd do the front ones as well. If the fittings are rusty spray them with a good penetrant like Cyclo Breakaway(not WD40) and let the sit a day or so. If the fitting still won't turn try heating it a little, a propane torch would be enough if you don't have torches. But be careful, brake fluid burns and make sure a bleeder is open a little so pressure doesn't build up. If you do too thorough a job you'll never know, if you cut corners it's apt to bite you. Brakes are nice to have.

 

[Lefty]

yes, but it's the steel line that attaches to it that breaks. the one that comes from the frame to the small end.
at least that's the way it happens up here in the rust belt.

I have a 2003. Mine had to be replaced. Rust