[biggflintmi]

About a week ago the brake pedal lost stiffness. it will go halfway to the floor before starting to stop. I thought i had a leak somewhere so i bought some fluid and topped it off. I don't see it leaking anywhere and there isn't any noticeable spots in the driveway from it leaking. The other day i go to stop and the tire locks up on me and it didn't want to stop so i parked it(reservoir was full after it locked up). I just took the tire off and the adjustment screw was laying in the drum. I cant afford to throw money at it so my question is how do i tell what i need? The pads don't look too bad but i plan to replace them anyway while the tires off. I fear the problem is worse than just replacing the brakes and springs. any input is greatly appreciated.

91 Thunderbird, 3.8L

[phantom]

I think we would need a picture of the situation. Most auto parts stores offer complete kits though.

[Cuda_jim]

Originally Posted by biggflintmi

I cant afford to throw money at it so my question is how do i tell what i need? 91 Thunderbird, 3.8L

Can you afford to throw your life away? It a safety issue! It's a 1991! Even if you have a secret death wish please be considerate of others sharing the road with you.

You most likely need everything since you found the adjusted loose in the brake drum. The drum most likely has gouges in it.

You will need at a Minimum:
Shoes, drums, spring kit, adjuster kits and possibly a wheel cylinder (or two). You most likely pushed the piston too far out of the its bore. This can cause a leak in the future.......requiring you to do this all over again if you decide not to replace it. I suggest replacing the other side too since you will need to bleed the brakes anyway.

Be prepared to get frustrated:
Soak the bleeder screws, wheel cylinder attaching bolts + the brake line fitting on the back side with a rust buster of some sort. The brake line fitting will most likely twist the line causing you to get new brake lines too.

[70XL]

You will also do both sides. You never replace just one side and new shoes require new drums. New drums are probably cheaper than having the existing ones turned, if they are turnable and if you can find anyone to turn them.