Jeep Comanche Rear Drum Brake Hardware Kit Guide (1986-1992)
Everything you need to know about replacing the tired drum brake hardware on your MJ.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when changing brake shoes; it's cheap insurance against brake problems.
- Confirm your axle type (Dana 35 or Dana 44) and brake size (9-inch or 10-inch) before ordering parts, as it varied by year.
- A weak parking brake is a classic sign of worn hardware and seized self-adjusters on a Comanche.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Centric and Crown Automotive are excellent choices for this part.
Is Your Comanche's Rear Braking Feeling Weak?
If you're noticing that your Jeep Comanche isn't stopping like it used to, or if the parking brake is more of a suggestion than a command, worn-out drum brake hardware is a likely culprit. For a truck that's over 30 years old, the original springs and clips have seen a lot of heat cycles and are probably rusted and weak. Replacing the hardware is a cheap and essential part of any rear brake job. It ensures your new brake shoes can move freely and retract properly, giving you a firm pedal and a parking brake that actually holds.
Symptoms of Failing Drum Brake Hardware
Worn hardware can cause a range of issues. Because the springs can no longer pull the brake shoes away from the drum effectively, you might hear a constant scraping or dragging noise from the rear wheels. A weak or ineffective parking brake is another very common symptom in Jeep Comanches, often traced back to worn hardware or improperly adjusted drums. You might also notice the brake pedal feels soft or has a longer travel before the brakes engage.
Don't Forget the Self-Adjusters
The self-adjusting mechanism in your Comanche's drums is supposed to keep the shoes close to the drum as they wear down. These adjusters often seize with rust and stop working. Most comprehensive hardware kits include new self-adjuster components. Always clean, lubricate, or replace these parts during a brake job to ensure your brakes work correctly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
Since original Mopar parts for this system are essentially unavailable, the aftermarket is your only option. Thankfully, many reputable brands offer complete kits. The most important step is correctly identifying your Comanche's rear axle and brake size, as they changed over the years.
- 1986-1989 Models: Typically equipped with 10-inch drum brakes.
- 1990-1992 Models: Typically equipped with 9-inch drum brakes.
- Dana 44 Axle: If your Comanche has the optional (and much stronger) Dana 44 axle, it will have 10-inch x 2.5-inch brakes, regardless of the year.
Pro Tip: To identify your axle, look at the differential cover. A Dana 35 has a round, oval-shaped cover, while the Dana 44 cover is more angular and stop-sign-shaped. If you're unsure, it's always best to pull a drum and measure before ordering parts.
Brand Quality Tiers
For a simple set of springs and clips, you don't need to overspend. However, quality still matters to ensure proper fit and tension.
- Good - Economy Brands (Dorman, Dynamic Friction): These brands offer affordable kits that get the job done. While some users on forums report inconsistent quality with Dorman on more complex parts, their hardware kits are generally considered acceptable.
- Better - Standard Aftermarket (ACDelco, Carlson, Centric): These are trusted, mainstream brands that offer a good balance of quality and price. Many owners and shops use them without issue. Centric, in particular, is a popular choice for Comanche brake jobs.
- Best - Jeep Specialist (Crown Automotive): Crown specializes in Jeep replacement parts and is often the go-to for owners looking for parts that closely match original specifications. They offer complete service kits that are confirmed to fit specific axles like the Dana 44.
Typical Costs for a Rear Drum Brake Job
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Drum Brake Hardware Kit | $10 - $17 |
| New Brake Shoes (Pair) | $25 - $50 |
| New Brake Drums (Each) | $30 - $60 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to replace the hardware every time I change my brake shoes?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The springs lose their tension over time from heat and use. For the low cost of a hardware kit, you ensure the entire brake system works as designed and avoid problems down the road.
What's included in a drum brake hardware kit?
A complete kit typically includes all the necessary return springs, hold-down springs, pins, clips, and often the self-adjuster cable and lever. Some kits may also include the star wheel adjuster itself.
My parking brake is weak, but my regular brakes seem fine. Will this kit fix it?
It's a very likely solution. A weak parking brake on a Comanche is often caused by seized self-adjusters or stretched/weak hardware, preventing the shoes from making firm contact with the drum when the cable is pulled. Also, check the pedal assembly itself, as the ratchet mechanism can wear out.
Are there any recalls or TSBs for the 1986-1992 Comanche drum brakes?
Searches of the NHTSA database and for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) did not show any specific recalls or bulletins for the drum brake hardware on the 1986-1992 Jeep Comanche. Any issues are typically due to age and normal wear.
Technical Specifications
Fits 1986-1992 Jeep Comanche (MJ) with rear drum brakes. Kit must be matched to axle type (Dana 35 or Dana 44) and drum size (9-inch or 10-inch).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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