<VV> brake note

[Padgett]

The drum brake as used on the Coravair can be kind of a jigsaw puzzle but 
some things make is a lot easier:
1) tools: I use a pair of needle nosed vice grips to install the link 
spring on the anchor (round thing), only thing I've found that can bot hold 
and rotate far enough. Also have a set of "brake spring 
pliers"  (http://www.mytoolstore.com/kd/kdbrak04.html ) with a different 
tool on each end - makes popping the springs on and off easy. Anyone know 
what the curved pointy end is for ?
2) disassemble: remove the adjuster/pivot/return spring assemble as an 
assembly. Do not disassemble unless replacing the spring. Even says so in 
the '655 manual ("Note" on page 5-9).
3) assembly: do the secondary (back/long lining) shoe first can almost 
completely assemble before starting on primary (front/short lining). Make 
sure the bottom spring does not bind the adjustment wheel, only goes on one 
way for maximum clearance. Always disassemble the adjuster and wheel and 
clean/apply never-seize so that everything moves freely then shorten all 
the way. Makes instalation easy and can adjust to fit the drum after (with 
new shoes, not much is needed).

Just had to do a rear brake set on a 70 GTO and GM used the same mechanism 
for quite a few years.

Padgett