1987 Chevrolet V20 Rear Drum Brake Hardware Kit Guide
Stop brake noise and improve stopping power on your classic V20 by replacing your worn drum brake hardware.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when installing new brake shoes to ensure proper function and prevent noise.
- Verify your V20 has 13-inch rear drums, as this was a common configuration for 3/4-ton models, to ensure you order the correct kit.
- Worn hardware is a common cause of brake noise, dragging, and poor parking brake performance on these older trucks.
- Aftermarket brands like Carlson, Centric, and Dynamic Friction offer reliable and affordable hardware kits for this vehicle.
Is Your V20 Making Noise When You Brake?
If you're hearing scraping, squealing, or clicking sounds from the rear wheels of your 1987 Chevrolet V20, worn drum brake hardware is a likely culprit. Over decades of use, the springs in the hardware kit lose their tension, and other parts can rust and seize. This can cause the brake shoes to drag, make noise, or fail to apply and release properly. It's a common issue on these square body trucks, especially if the brakes haven't been serviced in a long time.
Symptoms of Failing Drum Brake Hardware
- Scraping or Squealing Noises: Springs that are weak or broken can allow the brake shoes to vibrate or sit incorrectly, causing noise when you brake or even while driving.
- Brake Drag: If the return springs can't pull the shoes back from the drum, the brakes will drag. This creates excessive heat, which you might notice as a burning smell or even steam coming from the wheels after a drive. It will also cause poor fuel economy and premature wear.
- Loose or Ineffective Parking Brake: The parking brake on your V20 uses the rear drum brakes. Worn hardware can prevent it from holding the truck securely.
- Inconsistent or Spongy Pedal: When hardware fails, the self-adjusters may not work correctly, leading to a low or soft brake pedal.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a vehicle like the 1987 V20, original equipment (OEM) hardware kits are generally not available. The good news is that aftermarket brands offer quality replacement kits that meet or exceed original specifications. When shopping for a new kit, the most important factor is ensuring it matches your truck's specific configuration.
Pro Tip: The 1987 V20 is a 3/4-ton truck and was commonly equipped with large 13-inch rear drum brakes. Always verify your brake drum size before ordering parts to ensure you get the correct kit.
Available Brands: Carlson, Centric, Dynamic Friction
The brands available in our inventory are all reputable choices for your truck. There is no need to hunt for expensive, hard-to-find OEM parts for this job.
- Carlson: A long-standing name in brake hardware, known for providing comprehensive, quality kits.
- Centric: A very popular aftermarket brand that offers a wide range of parts. Their brake hardware is considered a reliable, middle-of-the-road option that provides good value.
- Dynamic Friction: A well-regarded manufacturer that produces brake components for many other brands. They are known for solid quality, and their parts are a dependable choice for a daily driver or work truck.
For a hardware kit, any of these brands will serve you well. The key is that you are replacing the old, fatigued parts with new ones. It is always recommended to replace the hardware kit whenever you replace your brake shoes.
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $11.76 - $16.64 |
| Shop Labor (for hardware & shoe replacement) | $175 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace the hardware when I replace my brake shoes?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The cost of a hardware kit is very low compared to the cost of the entire brake job. Old springs lose tension and can cause the new shoes to wear unevenly or make noise. Replacing the hardware ensures the entire system works like new.
Can I replace a drum brake hardware kit myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with moderate mechanical experience. However, drum brakes can be tricky due to the number of springs under tension. Special tools like brake spring pliers and an adjuster spoon make the job much easier and safer. Watching a tutorial video for a similar GM truck is a great way to prepare.
What causes a grinding noise even with new shoes?
If you hear grinding after a brake job, it could be due to several reasons: incorrect installation of the hardware, a stuck self-adjuster, or a problem with the parking brake cable. Sometimes, a shoe might not be seated correctly on the anchor pin at the top. It's important to inspect the assembly carefully.
Were there any recalls for the 1987 V20 drum brakes?
No specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) were found for the drum brake hardware on the 1987 Chevrolet V20. Issues with these components are typically related to age and wear.
Technical Specifications
Kit must be matched to the vehicle's rear brake drum diameter (e.g., 13 inches).
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.
- Chevrolet V20: