I just did the rear brakes on our '88 about 2 weeks ago.  Getting the drums
off proved to be a real battle.  We obtained a 46mm socket after much
looking. soaked the nuts in penetrating oil, added a 4 foot pipe to the
wrench for leverage and... no go.  Had  my 120lb. son sit on the end of the
leverage multiplying pipe while I whacked the wrench with a 10 lb. sledge
and...no go.  Gave up on the nut.  This will have to be someone elses
problem.  OK, we'll try popping the drum loose from the hub.  Penetrating
oil, lots of heat,  2 big screwdrivers prying  against the backing plate (my
gear / hub isn't big enough) and lots of tapping with a hammer.  Added a
choice selection of gutter vocabulary and BOING!  Off they came.  Getting
the brakes shoes, springs and hardware in and out would have been easier if
the hub had come off.

Be prepared for a struggle.

Gary
----- Original Message -----
From: Ed Mellinger <meed@MBARI.ORG>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2000 3:27 PM
Subject: Rear Brake Drums

> David -
>
> Many thanks for the tips on rear brake service.  I find my rear drums
> pretty solidly frozen to the hubs... is there a special puller or
> extractor for it, or is it just simpler to deal with the 46 mm nut?
>
> regards,
> Ed Mellinger
> '84 plain jane
>