Choosing the Right Rear Drum Brake Shoes for Your 1991-1996 Buick Roadmaster
Keep your classic B-body stopping safely and reliably with the correct new aftermarket drum brake shoes.
- Brake shoes should always be replaced in pairs (both rear wheels) to ensure even stopping power.
- For a complete and lasting repair, replace the drum brake hardware kit along with the shoes.
- Inspect brake drums and wheel cylinders during the job; replace them if they are scored, leaking, or heavily worn.
- A 1992 model year recall for a leaking ABS modulator could affect brake performance; check if your vehicle is affected.
Is it Time to Replace Your Roadmaster's Brake Shoes?
The rear drum brakes on your Roadmaster are designed to last a long time, but they do wear out. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to reduced stopping power or damage to other parts like the brake drums. Listen and feel for these symptoms when you drive.
Safety First: Check for Recalls
There was a safety recall for some 1992 Buick Roadmaster models (NHTSA Campaign ID: 97V217000) concerning a potential leak in the antilock brake system (ABS) modulator. A fluid leak can significantly increase your stopping distance. While this isn't a recall on the brake shoes themselves, it's a critical safety issue for the brake system. It's always wise to check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle using its VIN.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
Since original GM parts can be hard to find and expensive, the aftermarket is the go-to source for most Roadmaster owners. The key is to choose a quality brand that fits your budget and needs. Here’s a look at the brands available, from standard replacement to premium options.
Good: Standard Replacement Shoes
Centric is a common brand that offers a direct, OE-style replacement for your Roadmaster. They are designed to provide similar performance to the original parts and are a cost-effective choice for daily driving. While widely used, it's always good practice to inspect any new part for manufacturing quality before installation.
Better: Quality-Focused Shoes
Dynamic Friction (DFC) is another strong contender in the standard replacement category. They are often seen as a direct competitor to Centric, focusing on providing quality parts that meet or exceed original specifications. For a daily-driven Roadmaster, these offer a solid balance of performance and value.
Best: Premium & Performance-Oriented Shoes
PowerStop is often viewed as an upgrade over standard parts. Their drum brake shoes are typically made from a semi-metallic formula that is post-cured, a process that helps increase braking power and reduce the break-in period. If you use your Roadmaster for towing or simply want an extra margin of braking performance, PowerStop is an excellent choice.
Pro Tip: Don't Forget the Hardware
When you replace your brake shoes, it is highly recommended to also replace the springs, clips, and adjusters. These parts make up the drum brake hardware kit. Old springs can weaken, causing noise or improper shoe retraction. A new hardware kit is inexpensive and ensures your new shoes work correctly from day one.
Estimated Costs for Rear Drum Brake Shoe Replacement
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Shoes | $45 - $76 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) Brake Shoes | $80 - $150 |
| Shop Labor | $175 - $350 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $220 - $426 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and the condition of related components like brake drums and wheel cylinders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my brake drums with the shoes?
Not always, but you must inspect them. If the inside surface of the drum has deep grooves or a large lip on the edge, it should be resurfaced or replaced. An out-of-round or heavily scored drum will ruin new shoes and cause braking problems. For best results, installing new drums with new shoes is recommended.
Can I replace just one side?
No. Brakes must always be serviced in pairs (both rear wheels at the same time) to ensure even braking power. Uneven brakes can cause the car to pull to one side during a stop, which is dangerous.
Is replacing drum brake shoes a good DIY project?
It can be, but it is more complex than a disc brake job. Drum brakes have many small springs and clips that must be reinstalled correctly. If you are a patient DIYer with the right tools, it is achievable. A great tip is to only disassemble one side at a time, leaving the other side intact as a reference.
What are wheel cylinders and should I replace them?
The wheel cylinder is the hydraulic part that pushes the shoes against the drum. They can leak brake fluid over time. A tell-tale sign of a leak is brake fluid on the inside of your wheel or tire. If a wheel cylinder is leaking, it MUST be replaced. Given the age of these vehicles and the low cost of the part, it's a smart idea to replace them along with the shoes and hardware.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 19171705 14462B
Fits 11-inch rear drum brake systems used on 1991-1996 Buick Roadmaster models.
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.
- Buick Roadmaster:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is it Time to Replace Your Roadmaster's Brake Shoes?
- Safety First: Check for Recalls
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
- Good: Standard Replacement Shoes
- Better: Quality-Focused Shoes
- Best: Premium & Performance-Oriented Shoes
- Pro Tip: Don't Forget the Hardware
- Estimated Costs for Rear Drum Brake Shoe Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off