Hello.

So I was about to replace the rear shoes on "my" '98 Sunfire convertible, and the driver's side was completely gunked up with some sort of oil. My first assumption is that it is brake fluid, but it didn't feel like brake fluid... and the car has not lost a lot of brake fluid, except the usual amount that goes down as the front discs wear. I'm wondering if the rear bearing has leaked. I can't imagine there is much grease/oil in the permanently sealed bearings, but it this a possibility? Or is it just likely the wheel cylinder is leaking? Other side looks fine, just typical brake dust. Both bearings otherwise seem OK.

Thanks,

BKNJ

pull back the rubber boot on the wheel cylinder. If its wet behind there it's leaking.


- Your not-so-local, untrained, uncertified, backyard mechanic. But my @!#$ runs

Hmm... thats going to be a tall order, as there is such a mess, I'm not sure I can clean the outside of the boots to inspect it without contaminating it, as well.

For now, since the drum is gouged, it gets put on the back burner for a few weeks.

BKNJ

That is a bad idea putting your brakes on the wait list.Just buy two cans of brake cleaner IT will cut thru the gook and you can check this with ease by pulling the boot back enough to see if fluid is present.And if it is new wheel cylinders on BOTH sides would be smart to do and replace the drum over machining (it will cost more to get it turned) if it reuseable.GO NEW drums there dirt cheap and do your brakes with new drums both sides and spring kit you will thank yourself later.Putting off brake work is not only unsafe but can do more damage as a result.

It can't do anymore damage at this point, at least to the brakes. As far as being unsafe, even with the brakes in tip top shape, the rear brakes contribute nearly zilch to the braking. The two drivers using this car are both aware of the problem and know how to cope with it.

In the meantime, I have no cash to throw at the problem properly (drums: $31 each, slave cylinders: $10/side, Shoes: $25, misc: $20), my health is giving me fits in the summer heat, I have three other cars which need repair immediately, and various issues with the house that if not taken care of will leave my family homeless. Brakes are important, I grant you, and I don't like delaying this repair, but its going to have to wait a few weeks until I have my ducks in a row.