Note: This procedure applies only to XL600V-H to L (1987 to 1990) models.
Warning: The dust created by the brake system may contain asbestos, which is harmful to your health. Never blow it out with compressed air and don't inhale any of it. An approved filtering mask should be worn when working on the brakes. Do not, under any circumstances, use petroleum-based solvents to clean brake parts. Use clean brake fluid, brake cleaner or denatured alcohol only.
Removal
1. Remove the rear wheel (see Section 14).
2. Lift the brake plate out of the drum In the wheel hub. Remove the brake shoes (see Section 2) (see illustration 2.24).
Inspection
3. Visually inspect the surface of the brake plate for distortion, cracks and other damage, and replace it with a new one if necessary.
4. Check the operation of the actuating cam. If there are any signs of roughness or stiffness, disassemble the plate assembly as follows.
5. Unscrew the nut and withdraw the bolt securing the arm on the end of the actuating shaft and slide the arm off. Note the alignment of the indicator plate then slide that off the shaft. Withdraw the shaft. Remove the thrust plate, noting how it locates.
6. Clean all components in solvent. Check the condition of the splines on the shaft and arm and replace them with new ones if the splines are worn or deformed. Remove the grease seals from the plate and clean the bore. Fit new grease seals if the old ones are deformed, damaged or deteriorated - if there is evidence of dirt and water ingress in the bore and on the shaft then renew them whatever they look like. Check the cam on the inner end of the shaft for wear.
7. Grease the lips of the seals and press them into place. Apply grease to the thrust plate and place it on the brake plate, locating its slot over the pin on the plate. Apply grease to the shaft and carefully slide it into the brake plate, making sure the thrust plate stays in place, and taking care not to damage the seal lips - it is a good idea to wrap a single layer of thin insulating tape around the shaft splines to prevent damage. Slide the indicator plate onto the shaft with its pointer facing in, and aligning its tab with the cutout on the shaft. Slide the arm onto the shaft, aligning the punch mark on the end ot the shaft with that on the outside of the arm. Fit the bolt and secure it with the nut.
Installation
8. Install the brake shoes (see Section 2). Fit the plate assembly into the drum in the rear wheel hub.
9. Install the wheel (see Section 14).