LR
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BrakesHigh severity

Seized or leaking drum brake wheel cylinders

Safety or reliability risk. Fix promptly.

Symptoms

Vehicle pulls to one side, a brake that drags or gets hot, fluid on the inside of the wheel or a low reservoir.

Likely cause

Moisture in the fluid corrodes the cylinder bores and pistons, especially on vehicles that stand unused.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Replace the wheel cylinders

    Replace in axle pairs and renew the shoes if they are contaminated with fluid. Bleed the system fully.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Change the brake fluid

    Renew DOT4 fluid every two years. Some owners switch to silicone DOT5 after a full rebuild, which does not absorb water. Never mix the two.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  3. 3

    Adjust the brake shoes

    Series brakes need regular adjustment using the snail cams on the back plates, otherwise the pedal goes long and braking is uneven.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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