79 Trans Am Brake Question

[AriesEd68]

I have a 1979 Trans Am, and there is a loud noise from the rear tire on the driver's side when applying the brake in reverse.

And a small trail of black dust on the pavement from that side.

Could that mean a new rotor and pads are needed, and which on the NAPA site would be best for this car?

 

[Pontiac Trans Am]

It sounds like something is sticking.

Have you taken the wheel off to look?

Thank you,
PTA Staff

 

[AriesEd68]

Just found out that it needs a new rotor and pads on that rear driver side.

But, another question, I was told to get new springs, too, but how many new springs?

 

[Pontiac Trans Am]

Just found out that it needs a new rotor and pads on that rear driver side.

But, another question, I was told to get new springs, too, but how many new springs?

Springs?

Like the suspension springs?

Thank you,
PTA Staff

 

[AriesEd68]

Springs?

Like the suspension springs?

Thank you,
PTA Staff

I assume rear brake shoe springs?

https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/UP_80712?impressionRank=1

 

[Knightrider189]

The auto parts store should sell those springs in a complete brake set.

It probably wouldn’t hurt to replace the wheel cylinder since you are in there.


1989 Pontiac Formula Firebird, 5.7, all OEM

 

[TheFNG]

Confusing.

The rotor and pads are for Disc brakes.

Disc brakes have no springs, and only drum brakes need springs.

And any brake mechanic will use a new spring kit when installing brake shoes as part of the job.

Brake shoes are for drum brakes, and brake pads are for disc brakes.

Most 1979 T/A’s have rear drum brakes, but some have rear disc brakes like all the silver anniversary cars.

I was a brake mechanic when I was younger.

If you have drum brakes, I would recommend doing new brake shoes with new wheel cylinders and “springs,” which is referred to as a hardware kit.

Every spring for both sides comes in a basic hardware kit.

You can not buy brake shoes or even brake pads for only one wheel.

They are not sold that way.

So it would be best to do both rear wheels, no matter what brakes you have.