1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper handling, installation, and maintenance of the Dorman HW111 Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit. This kit is designed as a direct replacement for original hardware required to repair the drum brake shoe on specified vehicles. It is engineered for reliable performance and durability, ensuring the correct function of your vehicle's drum brake system.
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or service to ensure safety and optimal product performance.
2. Safety Information
Automotive repair can be hazardous. Always follow proper safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working on vehicles. If you are not experienced with automotive brake systems, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance for installation.
- Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
- Use gloves to protect your hands.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath it. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery before performing any electrical work.
- Brake dust may contain asbestos or other harmful materials. Avoid inhaling brake dust. Use an approved brake cleaner and proper ventilation.
- Ensure all components are correctly installed and torqued to manufacturer specifications.
3. Product Overview
The Dorman HW111 Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit provides the necessary springs to restore proper function to your vehicle's drum brake system. These springs are crucial for retracting the brake shoes from the drum when the brake pedal is released, preventing drag and ensuring efficient braking.
3.1 Kit Contents
- Dorman HW111 Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit (contains multiple springs as required for one wheel assembly).
Image 1: The Dorman HW111 Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit, showing four black coiled springs with hooked ends, designed for drum brake shoe retraction.
4. Installation
Note: Installation of brake components requires specific tools and knowledge. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely and correctly, it is strongly recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician.
4.1 Required Tools and Materials
- Vehicle service manual for specific vehicle model
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel lug wrench
- Drum brake spring tool (recommended)
- Pliers (needle-nose, locking)
- Brake cleaner
- Wire brush
- New brake shoes (if replacing)
- High-temperature brake grease
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): safety glasses, gloves
4.2 General Installation Steps
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block the wheels not being worked on. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel to be serviced.
- Lift and Secure: Safely raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
- Remove Brake Drum: Carefully remove the brake drum. If the drum is stuck, it may require gentle tapping with a hammer or backing off the automatic adjuster.
- Document Existing Setup: Take clear photos or make a diagram of the existing drum brake assembly, paying close attention to the placement and orientation of all springs, pins, and levers. This is crucial for correct reassembly.
- Remove Old Springs: Using a brake spring tool or appropriate pliers, carefully remove the old return springs. Be cautious as springs are under tension.
- Inspect and Clean: Inspect all other brake components (shoes, wheel cylinder, hardware, drum) for wear or damage. Clean the backing plate and other components with brake cleaner and a wire brush. Apply high-temperature brake grease to contact points on the backing plate as specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Install New Springs: Install the new Dorman HW111 return springs in the exact locations and orientations as the original springs, referring to your documentation. Use a brake spring tool to safely stretch and hook the springs into place. Ensure they are securely seated.
- Reassemble: Reinstall the brake drum. Adjust the brake shoes if necessary according to the vehicle service manual.
- Final Steps: Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications. Repeat for other wheels as needed.
- Test Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure proper brake shoe adjustment and a firm pedal feel. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area.
5. Operation
The Dorman HW111 Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit functions as a critical part of your vehicle's drum brake system. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the wheel cylinder to push the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum, creating friction and slowing the vehicle. When the brake pedal is released, these return springs pull the brake shoes back to their resting position, away from the drum. This action prevents the shoes from dragging on the drum, which would cause premature wear, overheating, and reduced fuel efficiency.
6. Maintenance
Regular inspection of your vehicle's drum brake system, including the return springs, is essential for safety and longevity. Consult your vehicle's service manual for recommended inspection intervals.
- Visual Inspection: During routine brake service or tire rotations, visually inspect the return springs for signs of corrosion, stretching, or breakage.
- Functionality Check: Ensure the springs are securely attached and effectively retracting the brake shoes when the brake pedal is released.
- Cleanliness: Keep the brake assembly free from excessive dirt, rust, and brake dust, which can impede spring function.
- Replacement: If any springs show signs of damage or fatigue, replace them immediately with a new Dorman HW111 kit to maintain proper brake function.
7. Troubleshooting
Issues with drum brake shoe return springs can lead to various brake problems. Here are some common symptoms and potential causes:
| Symptom | Possible Cause (Spring Related) | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Brakes dragging or sticking | Weak, stretched, or broken return springs not fully retracting shoes. | Inspect and replace faulty return springs. |
| Excessive brake dust or squealing | Shoes not fully retracting, causing light contact with drum. | Inspect and replace faulty return springs. Clean brake assembly. |
| Uneven brake wear | One or more springs failing, causing uneven shoe retraction. | Inspect all springs and replace as a kit if necessary. |
| Loose or rattling noise from drum area | Broken or dislodged return spring. | Inspect and replace any broken or dislodged springs. |
Always perform a thorough inspection of the entire brake system if you experience any of these symptoms, as other components may also be at fault.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Dorman |
| Model Number | HW111 |
| Part Type | Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Kit |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car (Compatible with Select Models) |
| Assembly Required | No (Kit is ready for installation) |
| Item Weight | 0.01 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 6.6 x 2.6 x 1.1 inches |
| Manufacturer Part Number | HW111 |
| UPC | 082702377222 |
| OEM Part Numbers | 111; 111K; F36403; F36403S; H111; H111-2; H111DP; H36403; H36403S |
9. Warranty and Support
Dorman products are backed by a team of product experts and over a century of automotive experience, ensuring trustworthy quality. For specific warranty information, technical support, or to verify fitment for your exact vehicle, please visit the official Dorman website or contact their customer service department.
You can find more information and support resources by visiting the Dorman Store on Amazon or their official corporate website.