A Deep Dive into the 1990-2001 Jeep Cherokee Drum Brake Hardware Kit
Everything you need to know about keeping the rear brakes on your XJ working like they should.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when you replace the brake shoes.
- Verify if your Cherokee has 9-inch or 10-inch rear drums before ordering parts.
- A complete kit including the self-adjuster components is highly recommended over a basic spring kit.
- Aftermarket brands like Centric and ACDelco offer reliable, affordable options for this part.
Symptoms of a Failing Drum Brake Hardware Kit
When the small springs and clips in your XJ's rear brakes get old, they can cause big problems. Metal fatigue from millions of cycles of stretching and compressing, combined with rust, is the main enemy. It's a smart move to replace the hardware kit every time you replace your brake shoes. Here’s what to look and listen for:
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A common issue is when an adjuster cable snaps or a spring breaks. These loose metal parts can fall into the drum assembly and get ground up between the shoe and the drum, making a terrible noise.
- Spongy or Long-Travel Brake Pedal: If the self-adjuster mechanism is frozen or a spring is weak, the brake shoes won't stay adjusted close to the drum. This means you have to push the pedal further to make the brakes engage.
- Brake Dragging: Weak or broken return springs can't pull the brake shoes fully away from the drum when you let off the pedal. This causes the brakes to drag, leading to overheating, poor fuel economy, and premature wear on the shoes and drums.
- Parking Brake Issues: The hardware is directly connected to your parking brake function. If a cable or lever in the kit fails, your parking brake may not hold the vehicle securely.
Don't Ignore Noises from the Rear
A grinding or scraping sound from your rear brakes isn't just annoying; it's a sign of a critical failure. A broken piece of hardware can destroy your brake shoes and drum, or even cause a wheel to lock up. It's best to inspect it immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a vehicle like the 1990-2001 Cherokee, aftermarket brake hardware is the go-to choice. The original Mopar parts can be difficult to find and expensive. Aftermarket kits are readily available, affordable, and often meet or exceed the quality of the original parts. The key is knowing which brands to trust.
Brand Quality Tiers
Most owners and mechanics agree that when it comes to the small metal parts in a hardware kit, you don't need a top-tier, high-performance brand. The most important thing is that the kit is complete and the parts aren't flimsy. Based on owner feedback and general reputation, here’s a breakdown:
- Good, Reliable Choices (Recommended): Brands like Centric, ACDelco, and Dynamic Friction offer complete kits that are well-regarded by Jeep owners. They provide a good balance of quality and cost. Many forum users report using Centric kits without issue.
- Jeep Specialist Brands: Crown Automotive and Omix-Ada are well-known in the Jeep community. They specialize in Jeep parts and are generally a safe bet for correct fitment, though sometimes priced slightly higher than general service brands.
- Economy Options: Brands like Dorman or other store-brands offer very affordable kits. While often perfectly fine for this application, it's wise to inspect the parts out of the box to ensure they look and feel substantial. For the small price difference, stepping up to a brand like Centric or ACDelco is often worth the peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Get the Complete Kit
When shopping, you'll see basic spring kits and more complete "combi-kits." It's highly recommended to get the complete kit that includes the self-adjuster cable, lever, and spring. These are common failure points and it's frustrating to have the job apart only to realize you need more parts.
Common Ordering Mistakes
The biggest mistake when ordering parts for your XJ's rear brakes is getting the wrong size. From 1990-2001, Cherokees came with two different rear axle and brake combinations, which determines the drum size.
- 9-inch Drums: Most common. Found on the Dana 35 and Chrysler 8.25 axles.
- 10-inch Drums: Less common. Typically found on models with a towing package or police package.
Before you order, it's best to verify what you have. You can sometimes tell by looking at the wheel cylinder from behind the backing plate. On 9-inch systems, the brake line usually goes straight into the cylinder, while on 10-inch systems, it often enters at an angle. However, the most reliable way is to pull a drum off and measure its inside diameter.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $10 - $20 |
| Shop Labor to Install (with shoes) | $150 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware with the shoes?
Yes. It is highly recommended by mechanics and experienced owners. The springs lose tension over time and can break. For the small cost of the kit, you ensure your new brake shoes work properly and avoid having to do the job twice.
Are there any recalls for the 1990-2001 Cherokee drum brakes?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database show no recalls or specific safety campaigns for the drum brake hardware on the 1990-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ. Recalls found for "Jeep Cherokee" brakes relate to much newer models with electronic parking brakes or different braking systems.
Is this a good DIY job for a beginner?
It can be challenging. Drum brakes have many small springs under tension, and the reassembly order is critical. 🎬 Watch this complete rear drum brake job for a step-by-step walkthrough. It is recommended to take lots of pictures before and during disassembly. Only do one side at a time so you have the other as a reference. Special tools like brake spring pliers can make the job much easier.
What else should I replace while I'm in there?
Any time you are replacing the brake shoes and hardware, you should carefully inspect the wheel cylinders for any signs of leaking brake fluid. Pull back the rubber boots on the cylinder; if any fluid is present, the cylinder has failed and must be replaced. 🎬 See how to replace drum brakes and a wheel cylinder together. It's also a good time to inspect the brake drums for deep grooves or a large lip on the edge.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4636779
Contains springs, retainers, pins, and adjuster components for either 9-inch or 10-inch rear drum brakes.
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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