Rusty Rear Disc Backing Plates

[jfsedlacek]

I have a 2004 Sierra 1500 with discs all around. Just did a rear brake job (at 113,000 miles) and found the backing plates crumbling, literally. That's what I get for living in the rust belt. Do I have to remove the axles to replace the backing plate or is there a secret trick to getting them on?

 

Thanks

[txab]

Pull axles.

[VMax2007]

Pull axles.

 

 

Or find one of those magicians that can do the "Linking Rings" trick.

 

[Zembonez]

Yes, you have to pull the axles... but it's easy to do.

 

Now would be a great time to install new axle bearings and seals too. Cheap insurance and you're already gonna have it apart. It's not a bad job and it's probably time for new fluid anyway.

[jfsedlacek]

Thanks to all.

 

I was going replace the diff fluid anyway and stopped when I saw the backing plates. And I'm going to do the bearing and seals while it's apart, I don't like digging into it twice.

 

Probably add helper air springs at the same time for that occasional ton of sand and gravel. Looking at the Firestone springs from Summit Racing.

[txab]

Pull axles.

 

 

Or find one of those magicians that can do the "Linking Rings" trick.

 

 

 

I never thought of that!