Parking Brake Cables

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Doppleganger

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I take it GM makes nothing for these trucks anymore? Was wondering if there was an aftermarket parking brake cable that had the metal wrap like my original one does? Only ones I've seen look like a modded hood release cable - very generic.

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I would reuse mine but this truck had running boards with some custom-cobbed bracketry that rubbed almost through 2 places.

Thanks.
 

Craig 85

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Is this more like what you're looking for? https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/UBQ92882

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He's looking for this style. The ribbed looking one that snakes through my picture. I couldn't find any when I needed one a few years ago and had to by the plastic cover style. FYI the one you posted is for earlier models where it bolts to the backing plate. 1985 should have the push through style with 2 little tabs. Photo #2.

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Doppleganger

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He's looking for this style. The ribbed looking one that snakes through my picture. I couldn't find any when I needed one a few years ago and had to by the plastic cover style. FYI the one you posted is for earlier models where it bolts to the backing plate. 1985 should have the push through style with 2 little tabs. Photo #2.

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I think thats it! (I knew you'd know - lol) The pic I posted is from my own 85 K20 - seriously dont think its ever been touched. Who offers this?

ALSO....who offers the most complete rebuild kit for the drum hardware? I swear every kit I see has everything but 1-2 items. Its bad enough there's so many variables (diameter of drum, brakes, thickness of drum, etc.). My drums are 13 x 6 3/8 - but then they ask about brake length? Most shot things from mine are the springs (stretched or broke). All the adjusters and brackets could be cleaned and even replated if need be. THANKS!
 

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Doppleganger

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2 of those wheel cylinders just arrived today from Rock. I knew I'd at least need those. lol

Was looking at THIS, but still not certain its for what I have.
 

WebMonkey

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that link description says 11" drums.

if you have 11" drums, it looks good.

:)
 

Doppleganger

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Nope....they're 13's. But thats the kind of inclusive kit I'd like to find for mine.

Still thinking of just cleaning and replating what I got....I know they fit. Except the springs....they're toast.
 

Craig 85

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I had to piece mine together, but I got it all from Napa. I looked at your link and saw Parts Geek was the online seller. Here's a link to their website. I listed out the separate links to get you the parts needed. Since my truck is a California truck, I didn't need to replace any of the hard metal parts, just springs and retainers, etc.

Main Page
https://www.partsgeek.com/ymm/1985/chevrolet/k20.html?sort=pop&scat=brake
Brake Self Adjuster kits
https://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/1985/chevrolet/k20/brake/drum_brake_self_adjuster_repair_kit.html
Drum Brake Hardware kits (springs)
https://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/1985/chevrolet/k20/brake/drum_brake_hardware_kit.html
Strut kits
https://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/1985/chevrolet/k20/brake/parking_brake_strut.html
Strut Return Spring (11" brakes) - Found mine locally
https://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/1985/chevrolet/k20/brake/parking_brake_strut_spring.html
 

Doppleganger

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Thanks so much for all the links!

When they say 11" brakes, are they talking shoes or drums? My truck is from Oregon, so very clean - the adjusters and brackets are easily re-usable. Just figured if they came new in a kit, so be it. I have access to a zinc plater too, so its nothing to make them like new if there is any rust or corrosion.

Next up will be the master cylinder and booster. I have heard U-line refurbs boosters. ?! Dunno.
 

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Thanks so much for all the links!

When they say 11" brakes, are they talking shoes or drums?

The shoes and drums would be the same size. They're referring to the ID of the drum if that makes more sense.
 

Turbo4whl

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Thanks so much for all the links!

When they say 11" brakes, are they talking shoes or drums? My truck is from Oregon, so very clean - the adjusters and brackets are easily re-usable. Just figured if they came new in a kit, so be it. I have access to a zinc plater too, so its nothing to make them like new if there is any rust or corrosion.

Next up will be the master cylinder and booster. I have heard U-line refurbs boosters. ?! Dunno.

Good idea to refurbish and reuse the stamped steel parts. Many aftermarket kits are mixed with incorrect length pieces. Any stamped parts made in China are junk. Cheap steel will rust in a minute in the salt belt.

The adjuster cable length is critical for the self adjusters to work correctly. The cable eye should be installed between the two shoe return springs. After it is installed, take a hammer and a screwdriver, make sure the cable eye is set down tight to the pin. Take the gap out the way the cable pulls.

Remember, the self adjuster only maintains the adjustment. Initial replacement adjustment is required.
 

Craig 85

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Next up will be the master cylinder and booster. I have heard U-line refurbs boosters. ?! Dunno.

I just had an issue when replacing my Hydro-boost unit. Luckily it was a mismarked box. I did find out that A-1 Cardone is the one that rebuilds the master cylinders and hydro-boost units for all the auto parts stores. They do offer a direct rebuilding service, but it didn't ask about vacuum boosters.
 

Doppleganger

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I've never had good luck with refurb'd boosters. If they lasted 2 yrs I was shocked....usually it was 6 months. There are a few booster rebuild outlets (private businesses) with great feedback from classic car restorers. Steep, like $200+, but if I could get something 'new' the same level as the 35yr old model sitting in it now (that still works), it'd be worth it. The blister pack stores' remans are utter garbage.

It will never be easier to R&R than now with the whole truck gutted.
 

AuroraGirl

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I've never had good luck with refurb'd boosters. If they lasted 2 yrs I was shocked....usually it was 6 months. There are a few booster rebuild outlets (private businesses) with great feedback from classic car restorers. Steep, like $200+, but if I could get something 'new' the same level as the 35yr old model sitting in it now (that still works), it'd be worth it. The blister pack stores' remans are utter garbage.

It will never be easier to R&R than now with the whole truck gutted.
i have a dual reservoir master cylinder that is just laying in a pile, do you think it stands more value to be rebuilt or sold for scrap?
 

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