Replacing the rear wheel cylinder in a 1988 Jeep Cherokee might sound difficult if you have never tried it before. But with the right tools and careful steps, you can do the job at home and save on mechanic costs. This repair is important because a worn or leaking wheel cylinder can cause brake failure or uneven stopping, putting your safety at risk. For many Jeep owners, working on their own vehicle is a rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to replace a rear wheel cylinder on your 1988 Jeep Cherokee, with clear steps and practical advice.
Tools And Parts You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these items:
- New rear wheel cylinder (ensure it fits a 1988 Jeep Cherokee)
- Brake fluid (DOT 3 or as specified)
- Socket set and wrenches
- Brake line wrench (flare nut wrench, 10mm is common)
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Drain pan
- Brake cleaner
- Rubber gloves
- Shop rags
- Flathead screwdriver
- C-clamp or brake spring tool (for drum brakes)
- Safety glasses
It’s important to use the correct size tools. For example, using an open wrench instead of a brake line wrench can round off the brake line nut, making removal much harder.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Vehicle
- Park on a level surface and set the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly, but do not remove them yet.
- Use a jack to lift the rear of the Jeep and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the rear wheels.
Step 2: Access The Wheel Cylinder
- The rear brakes on a 1988 Cherokee are drum brakes. Remove the drum by pulling it off. If stuck, gently tap with a rubber mallet.
- Use brake cleaner to remove dust and dirt inside the drum area.
- Locate the wheel cylinder at the top of the backing plate.
Step 3: Remove The Old Wheel Cylinder
- Place a drain pan under the brake assembly to catch any leaking fluid.
- Use the brake line wrench to loosen and disconnect the brake line from the wheel cylinder. Be careful—brake fluid can damage paint.
- Remove the two bolts holding the wheel cylinder to the backing plate.
- Carefully move the brake shoes aside if needed. Use a C-clamp or brake spring tool to compress the shoes if they block the cylinder.
- Take out the old wheel cylinder.
Step 4: Install The New Wheel Cylinder
- Position the new cylinder in place and secure it with the two bolts.
- Reconnect the brake line carefully. Don’t cross-thread it.
- Double-check that all bolts and connections are tight.
Step 5: Reassemble The Brakes
- Move the brake shoes back into position.
- Reinstall the brake drum.
- Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Step 6: Bleed The Brakes
When you replace a wheel cylinder, air can get into the brake lines. Bleeding removes this air.
- Fill the master cylinder with new brake fluid.
- Have a helper press the brake pedal several times and hold it.
- Open the bleeder screw on the wheel cylinder to release air and fluid, then close it.
- Repeat until clear fluid with no bubbles comes out.
- Top up the brake fluid as needed.
Step 7: Final Checks
- Reinstall the wheel, lower the Jeep, and tighten the lug nuts securely.
- Pump the brake pedal until it feels firm.
- Check for leaks at the new cylinder and brake line.
Data Table: Rear Wheel Cylinder Specs
Here’s a quick look at key specs for the 1988 Jeep Cherokee rear wheel cylinder:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Bore Size | 13/16 inch (20.6 mm) |
| Material | Cast Iron |
| Brake Fluid Type | DOT 3 |
| Torque Spec (Mount Bolts) | 80-120 in-lbs |
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
- Forgetting to bleed brakes: Air in the lines can make brakes soft or fail. Always bleed after replacing a wheel cylinder.
- Using the wrong tools: Open-ended wrenches can strip brake line nuts. Always use a flare nut wrench.
- Mixing up brake shoes: If you remove both sides, keep parts separate. Shoes and springs are not always identical left to right.
- Not cleaning up brake fluid: Brake fluid damages paint and rubber. Clean any spills fast.
- Over-tightening bolts: This can crack the cylinder or strip threads. Use the correct torque.
Cost Comparison: Diy Vs. Mechanic
Wondering if you should do it yourself? Here’s a simple cost comparison:
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (Parts + Fluid) | $30 – $60 |
| Professional Mechanic | $120 – $250 |
Doing the work yourself can save a lot of money. But you must be careful to follow each step and test your brakes before driving.
Pro Tips For A Smooth Replacement
- Soak rusted bolts with penetrating oil before starting. This makes removal easier.
- Photograph the drum brake assembly before disassembly. It helps if you forget how parts go back.
- If the brake drum is hard to remove, check for a lip on the drum edge or loosen the brake adjuster.
- Always test drive slowly after repair to ensure brakes feel normal.
For more details about drum brake systems, check this helpful resource: Wikipedia: Drum brake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Wheel Cylinder Is Bad?
Common signs are leaking brake fluid, soft brake pedal, or poor braking. You might see fluid on the inside of the wheel or brake drum.
Do I Need To Replace Both Rear Wheel Cylinders At The Same Time?
It’s not required, but many experts recommend it. If one fails, the other may soon follow, especially if both are old.
What Type Of Brake Fluid Should I Use?
Use DOT 3 brake fluid unless your Jeep’s manual says otherwise. Mixing types can damage the brake system.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Rear Wheel Cylinder?
For a beginner, plan for 1 to 2 hours per side, including bleeding the brakes and cleanup.
Can I Drive With A Leaking Rear Wheel Cylinder?
No. Leaking wheel cylinders reduce braking power and are dangerous. Replace them before driving again.
By following these clear steps and tips, you can confidently replace the rear wheel cylinder on your 1988 Jeep Cherokee and keep your brake system safe and reliable.
