Help! Rear Brakes on a '72 K20

[Stout72]

I need to replace the rear wheel cylinders on my '72 K20. I'm no pro at this, never done it before. My mechanic told me that since I have full floating rear axles, I'll have to remove the 8 bolts from the hub, remove the cover plate, then remove the 2 axle nuts and withdraw the axle, then I can get the brake drum off. Is this correct?

I'm not opposed to doing this work myself, but I am unsure of the pitfalls in doing this thing myself for the first time with no assistance. Is this something the novice should attempt to tackle? Are there any special tools involved? Some advice from the more experienced will be greatly appreciated.

Would a photo of what I have be of any assistance to any of you would-be advisors? I have a digital available, but I guess we can't attach files to posts.

------------------
72 Chevy K20 LWB, 350/350, lifted, dual shock suspension F&R.
AKA The Beast. Daily driver, even though it's a work in progress.

[Milenko72276]

I just tackled that project myself,for the first time.It isn't as bad as it sounds,the worst thing is the drum brake springs.If you've done that before you will be okay.When you take the 8 bolts from the hub it will seep some axle grease.Also a torque wrench and a spindle nut socket will come in handy.I bought the socket at O'Reilly Auto for $27.Mine was the one with 6 prongs.My truck is also a 72'K20 with 8" lift.I can dig up the torque specs if you'd like.

[Stout72]

Thanks for the reply, Milenko. After I posted this topic, I got brave and opened it up. You're right, it doesn't look as bad as I thought. I'm off to the store to get a socket so I can get on with it. My manual has the torque specs, so I should be ok. No guts, no glory.

------------------
72 Chevy K20 LWB, 350/350, lifted, dual shock suspension F&R.
AKA The Beast. Daily driver, even though it's a work in progress.