Two Questions...Door & Brakes

[Zudnick]

Hey,

I have two questions, on two completely different subjects – both for my 4-door 1996 Blazer 4x4.

First, the right side rear door rattles when I hit a large bump in the road. When I checked to see what the problem was, I found that when closed the door has some play “in and out”. It’s like it doesn’t close quite tight enough. It’s the only door that does this – all the others are tight when closed. There is no play up or down (when closed or open), just in and out when the door should be closed tight. So, can the door, or latch be adjusted somehow to make it tight? And if it can be adjusted can anyone describe this process?

Secondly, I think it’s about time to do the rear brakes on this thing… I plan on putting new shoes on the back and having the drums machined. For those that have done this before on these Blazers, is there anything special to take note of? Any special tools or time saving tips?

Thanks for the help on both of these questions.


Z

[billibong]

Regarding the first question - look in the FAQ's for Door Pin replacement. Plan on it taking a couple of hours, and try to get some help.
Second - the only thing to remember for doing drum brakes is to have the right tools, and you may need to use some kind of "helper" to remove the drums. They tend to stick after they've been on for a while.
Let us know how it goes.

[redwheeler]

yes get help and do the door pins and a soft face hammer or rubber mallet work really good

[OverBoardProject]

I disagree with the door pins. It's either the door latch, or the pin that it catches on. There's often a rubber or plastic sleave on this pin and it's probably gone.

About the brakes.
Why not inspect them first. They might still be good, and if they aren't you'll know what needs replacing.
If you can't get the drums off do what I used to do.
take it to a brake shop for a free inspection. They'll have the drums nice and loose for you to do the work. Just don't put it off for long or they might get stuck on again.