I'm skilled with brakes and have done drum brakes many a time, but this will be the first time I've done them on the XJ (2000), or anything besides a GM vehicle for that matter.

Anything I should be aware of before going into it (besides only doing one side at a time) or is it pretty much just like any drum brake set up?

 

Just did mine 200 miles ago. They are the same as any other drum brake system, just a little tip. they can be a pain to take off sometimes due to rust, heat, and wear.

 

Easy 15 min fix.

 

same thing as any other drum break for the most part. i replaced mine, no big deal. just like you said, do one side at a time so you have a reference point to fall back on.

 

Yeah I also printed off the instructions from alldata just in case I forgot the order of the springs or something. That's happened to me a few times

 

You work too hard and don't drink enough beer.

 

Just watch out for the date of your jeeps build.
Apparently after March 2000 they changed the shoes somewhat and they are about $30 more. It's Canada so we always get ripped off by the retailers here.
Mine was built in January so it had the same style as my 99 and 98 and even my old 90. I've seen the newer shoes and there were some differences in the spring mounting holes, but thats all I could see.

 

i did a write up some time ago. if that helps...

 

@Jamie57 - check out www.rockauto.com - I have ordered a few times from them and have had no issues (knocks on wood). Not sure if it would be any cheaper as they would have to ship out of the US but worth checking out none the less.

 

Thanks. just found one called prime auto here in Canada and the US. Got 4 ball joints for my 99 for $64 shipped! Shoes for $15 and drums for $25.
Beats the Jobber prices I can get from wholesalers!