Removal and installation parking brake pads (BMW 3 Series E36)

Removal

Remove the rear wheel brake disc.



Disconnect the front return spring. Check the return spring. Replace the rusted and weakened spring.



Lightly press the pressure spring with a 5 mm open-end wrench, turn 90° (¼ turn) and remove the spring from the brake shoe.

Also remove the pressure spring from the other brake shoe.



Spread the brake pads from the top and remove them downwards.





Check ease of movement and, if necessary, remove the expansion lock. To do this, pull part "1" back, push out pin "2" and remove part "3" from the cable.

Installation

It is imperative to replace the brake pads on both sides.

Apply a very thin layer of Molykote G paste to the working surfaces and the pin of the expansion lock.

(Figure W 4479) Place the expansion lock with pin "2" at the bottom on the handbrake cable in the correct position.



Ensure the movement of the brake shoe installation mechanism "1". Lightly lubricate the thread with Molykote paste. Return the threaded element to the end.

Place the installation mechanism in the correct position between the brake shoes. Connect the return spring "2" (thinner spring) to the undersides of the brake pads.





Insert the brake pads. The brake pads should fit into the "arrow" slots of the spacer lock from above.



The gear of the adjustment mechanism must be facing downwards so that it can be easily adjusted from the outside.



Using a 5 mm spanner, press the 2 pressure springs and simultaneously turn them 90°. In the closed position, the marking on the bolt head is located as shown in the figure.



Connect the upper return spring.



The "arrow" brake pads must rest against the support on the brake shield.

Install the brake disc and rear wheel.

Adjust the handbrake.

Note: If the brake pads of the handbrake have been replaced, they must be run in as follows. At a speed of about 40 km/h, carefully tighten the handbrake until some braking occurs. While maintaining the speed, tighten the handbrake lever another click and drive about 400 m. Release the handbrake and let it cool. It is recommended to do this once every three months, regardless of whether the pads have been replaced, as this removes any corrosion and friction products from the working surfaces.