Why you should always replace the rear brake shoes

JPaganel

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If you get an old Yamaha of any model with drum brakes in the rear you should preventively replace rear shoes.

There is a good chance they are original.

1980's Yamaha shoes don't really last 40 years. And what happens is what I found on mine - delamination.

This is a quick way to a crash. The loose lining can get stuck under the other one and lock up the wheel.

Brake shoes are $15-20. Cheap insurance.
 

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Bummer, first time I've seen that on a Japanese motorcycle. Seen it a hundred times on cars though.

I've seen it specifically on Yamahas, and specifically of early 80's vintage. I think they may have had a bad run of them at some point.

I figure 20 bucks is way worth the peace of mind.
 
The front and rear brake shoes on my 1981 XS400 needed replacement because of the delamination. Found both sets bad when I had changed tires.
Luckily this was a new to me bike and I discovered this before riding it.
 
If they are the ones that came with the bike it's not a big deal or something crazy to happen. I saw that on a 81 xs650 that sat for many years and the shoe metal was oxidized badly popping the friction surface off. I still run vintage shoes on all my bikes as long as they are still in spec. I am not sure of there exact age but I would guess some are from the 70's or early 80's. My 79 front shoes had at least 15k on them when I replaced them because that's what I had put on them. They still where in spec but while I had it apart I put NOS Yamaha ones on. They where manufacture in the early 90"s or late 80"s from the packaging. $17.99 shipped from ebay. But if anyone has any doubt about what is on your bike get new ones!!! It's the best way to be safe.
 
My wife's 82 Honda Magna had the rear delaminate. That was not a good day or a cheap tow.
The shop wouldn't normally look at such an old bike but she had the tow truck drop it in their lot and then it wasn't rolling anywhere.
 
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