Further maintenance works.

Having recently completed the full servicing of the front braking system and other associated items that needed attention at the front of the appliance, attention was now focussed on the rear offside brake, as during the earlier works, oil had been noticed on and around the brake drum and similarly at the differential
Needless to say, work like this is not for the faint of heart, particularly as the group do not have access to a professional work environment or facilities. However, due to the nature of our dedicated members and their indefatigable spirit, we press on to ensure that 240FLM is maintained to the highest possible standard.

In the first instance, even gaining access to the underside rear is challenging as the vehicle does in fact sit quite low and access is particularly challenging to some of the areas that we needed to get spanners on. Notwithstanding that, once the rear end had been securely raised enough to get good access, work could begin.

With the offside twin rear wheels removed, the brake drum and hub area could be seen and it was immediately apparent that the hub oil seal had failed and the hub assembly inside of the inner rear wheel was covered in oil.
Access to the offside rear brake air chamber was incredibly challenging as it was located in close proximity to a whole host of pipes, cables and chassis elements and, without an impact wrench, much sweating and swearing was required to remove it. However, it was finally removed and, as with the front chambers, was found to be in need of refurbishment/replacement. Following this experience, an impact wrench was purchased and boy, did it make a difference.

Once the chamber was removed, attention turned to the brake drum. As feared, as it came off the brake shoes it was clear that the oil leak from the integral hub had deposited oil over the brake shoes and as a result, they would need relining, just like the front!
The drum and hub were thoroughly degreased and cleaned and the hunt for a replacement hub oil seal began.

Attention now turned to unbolting the propshaft to ascertain the size of the nut that holds the rear differential pinion oil seal assembly which had also been seen with a slight oil leak. This is a planned maintenance job so it was essential to get a visual inspection done and detailed measurements recorded so that the actual work can be done far more efficiently when the time comes.
With our recent experience, it was quick and easy to get both of the rear brake air chambers refurbished and brake linings renewed. These have now been successfully refitted and adjusted accordingly.

The final job was to make all the final brake adjustments and a series of rod tests to ensure all was well. On completion, 240FLM has now returned to full duty and is once again ready to serve