Auggievf

When I was having my car gone over by the awesome people over at Corvette Express they sent me this picture of the broken parking brake spring.

Since I was already at the upper limit of my budget for repairs, they essentially told me that it would be fine as long as I didn't try to use the parking brake. Is this a really difficult repair to make or could a relative newb like me manage this?

Is it just taking the tire off and replacing the spring or is there a lot more to it? Do I need specialized tools or can I do it with basic tools?

Thanks for the help... I just don't want to forget and accidentally pull the brake one day a couple years from now because they said it would not release if I did...

Dynra Rockets

If you have never done it before it will be a b**ch of a job. Completely doable but you will use a lot of colorful language. There are youtube vids you can follow.

Auggievf

Thanks... I'll be tackling this job after I finish the interior (engine is solid... I do love starting her up and letting it idle while I'm working on the interior...) so I appreciate the info.

Peterbuilt

#1 Remove the wheel
#2 Remove the caliper
#3 Looks like you rivets are removed already so mark the rotor and a lug so it goes back together clocked as it was.
That looks like spring #5 so just replace it.

kenpeindl

When you tackle this job make yourself one of these out of a old screw driver. It will save you a lot of time and aggravation.

Ken

buns

Much info here:

Auggievf

WOW! Thanks @Peterbuilt @kenpeindl @buns . That info will help a lot.

With the help on this forum coupled with my AIM, I feel like I can accomplish most anything on my 'Vette.... You guys are awesome.

74_stingray

Absolutely make this tool. I already had one that I made for installing a spring in a Ruger No.1 Rifle. I just moved it from my Gunsmithing toolbox to the Garage.

Auggievf

ok... so the million dollar question is..... What is that fancy tool used for with the spring? To stretch it?

74_stingray

Yes, and insert it into the hole. All of the parts shown in the above photo are behind the spindle and not easily accessed.

Mooser

Possibly more (redundant) info and pictures
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...e-install.html

M

Auggievf

Cool! This guy used a string to pull the spring instead of the former screwdriver..... Always more than one way to do something....

ronarndt

Auggievf- definitely watch the videos to give you some idea what to do. The most difficult procedure will be getting the hold down springs installed (that spring with the round disc and the pin running thru it), since the axle hub is in the way and you cannot get your fingers in there to compress the spring and then twist the disc into place while also holding the pin. I used the dental floss method in my car and fortunately I had a bunch of surgical instruments to hold things in position behind the hub . There are a couple other methods that also work. You can also buy that notched screwdriver from a couple of the Corvette parts distributors if you don't want to ruin one of your screwdrivers. Have fun!

Auggievf

Thanks! I have a ton of crummy screw drivers from my many years of breaking things with tools... ostensibly to make repairs but yeah... that's another story....

Thanks for the tips. I'll definitely watch the videos!