So i was driving last night, and everything was fine until i went to brake, and my right rear locked up... thats not fun at 50 mph. its the dana 35 with drum brakes, its like either no brakes, or full lock for that one brake now. its a 96 Cherokee country. anyone else had that problem, or know how to fix it. thanks guys!

 

take the drum off and make sure nothing is broken in there. if one of the return springs popped that could give you a locking issue. I would also check to make sure the hard line is not pinched causing the fluid to slowly return after lifting the peddle. More then likely it is a spring problem. Pull it apart and what it looks like. if you need more help after it is apart take some pictures and post them here.

 

was it rainy outside? sometimes when it's really humid outside one side of my axle will also lock up, but it goes away after a couple more stops.

would be a good idea like dan said to remove the drums and seem what's going on under there, and while you're at it clean everything up and look if the shoes need to be replaced.

 

I will try what Dan said I haven't driven it since but I get my license today, I will see if I'd does it again. But it wasn't raining dry as it could be. And it seemed to get worse the more I braked.

 

Also how long does a drum brake last before you need to but new shoes on it

 

about that long.
time to put new shoes on it. check for a leaky wheel cylinder. i would also replace the drum and hardware on that side at least too.

 

Typical rear shoes get changed every second time you do the front brake pads. And i would not drive it till you pull the drums off. You could be driving it and hit the brakes and have a failure causing you to loose your brakes and have an accident. Congrats on getting your license. Don't take the chance on losing your jeep or your life over 40-50 dollars in rear brake parts. Pull the drums take some pictures and ask for help that is what we are here for.

 

Ok thanks Dan, I'm at the dmv right now. Just gonna take the driving part I'm taking the test in the trusty accord, so I will work on the jeep tonight probably.

 

awesome man, hope you passed.