1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Removal

• Raise and support vehicle.
• Mark relationship of wheel to axle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove brake drum. If drum is difficult to remove, proceed as follows:
• Ensure parking brake is released.
• Back off parking brake cable adjustment.
• Remove access hole plug from backing plate, insert screwdriver through hole and push parking brake lever off its stop.
• Insert punch through hole in splash shield Fig. , tap on punch to loosen drum. Then remove drum.
• Remove actuator spring using brake tool J 38400, or equivalent to pry loop end of spring from adjuster actuator, Fig. . ...

Replace

• Remove approximately ^2/3 of brake fluid from master cylinder.
• Raise and support front of vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Using suitable C-clamp, push piston back into caliper bore, Fig. .
• If caliper assembly is being removed for service, remove inlet fitting attaching bolt, copper washer, and inlet fitting from caliper housing. Plug opening in inlet fitting to prevent fluid loss and contamination. Do not crimp brake hose, as this may damage internal structure of hose. If only shoe and lining assemblies are to be replaced, do not disconnect brake line fitting fr...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level due to a chemical breakdown during use, and a few precautions will minimize exposure.

• Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessive asbestos exposure.
• Wear a suitable respirator approved for asbestos dust use during all repair proced...

System Operation

The function of the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is to minimize wheel lock-up during heavy braking on most road surfaces. The system performs this function by monitoring wheel speed and controlling the brake fluid pressure to each front wheel and both rear wheels during braking. This allows the driver to retain directional stability and better steering capability.

System Components

Refer to Fig. for system component locations.

Electronic Brake Control Module/Electronic Brake & Traction Control Module

The ABS system is controlled by a microprocessor based Electronic Brak...

• If any parts are of doubtful strength or quality due to heat discoloration, or are worn, replace them.
• Inspect wheel cylinder dust boots for signs of excessive wear or damage. If any leakage is apparent replace wheel cylinder.
• Clean dirt and/or rust from brake drum, backing plate and all other components. Do not use compressed air or dry brush to clean brake parts. Many brake parts contain asbestos fibers which, if inhaled, can cause serious injury. Clean brake parts with a water soaked rag or a suitable vacuum cleaner to minimize airborne dust.

Brake Drums

Any time the brake drums are r...