Brake fluid on brake shoes / pads

[asetoftools]

So I watched “how to replace a wheel cylinder” ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8k5GfTpZr4 ), however I want to ask one additional thing.

I want to save money. The internet seems to say to replace the rear shoes if they are covered in brake fluid. My wheel cylinder was leaking a lot for several months. Do the shoes really absorb brake fluid like a sponge?, as they say, or can you clean the shoes with brake cleaner, slap them back on there, and drive it out. I think the shoes are newish, is why i am asking. 1-2 years.

I am probably going to replace my shoes. They are 50 dollars though, which is a shame if i can just clean the old ones off. I am also replacing both wheel cylinders. Just wondering what etcg or others think about that.

Topic

[619DioFan]

I have had luck in the past cleaning up shoes that had brake fluid contamination. I would give it a shot.

[Roy French]

+1, no real problem if your on a budget.

[college man]

You could try the cleaning method.worst case scenario.
you will need new shoes. 😉

[EricTheCarGuy]

I’ve seen people use a propane torch to burn out impurities. I’ve never tried it but it looked like it worked. Keep us posted.

[asetoftools]

Well when I went to canadian tire to get the wheel cylinders, they were having a great sale on monroe shoes and I ended up paying $30 after tax for the set. So I did replace them in the end. I am a sucker for half off sales!

[college man]

I think you made the right choice replacing the shoes.
Thanks for the update. 😉

[EricTheCarGuy]

Good choice. Thanks for the update.

[Author]

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