Information for Owners of the 1982-1986 Pontiac Tempest Regarding the Drum Brake Hardware Kit
Important information regarding your vehicle's model year and parts availability before you begin your search.
- The Pontiac Tempest was not manufactured between 1982 and 1986; therefore, no parts are made for this specific model and year range.
- You must verify your vehicle's actual model and year using your VIN or registration before searching for parts.
- It is likely you own a different Pontiac model from that era, such as the 6000, Bonneville, or Grand Prix.
- For any car with drum brakes, it is critical to replace the hardware kit whenever you replace the brake shoes to ensure safety and performance.
Vehicle Model Year Inaccuracy
Owners looking for a Drum Brake Hardware Kit for a 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, or 1986 Pontiac Tempest should be aware that production records show the Pontiac Tempest was not manufactured for the North American market during these years. The original U.S. production run for the Tempest ended in 1970. The name was later revived from 1987 to 1991 for a version of the Chevrolet Corsica sold in Canada and other markets. Because the 1982-1986 Pontiac Tempest does not exist in production records, no new aftermarket or original equipment (OEM) Drum Brake Hardware Kits are made or listed for it.
Verify Your Vehicle Before Buying Parts
Before you can find the correct parts, you must identify your vehicle's actual model and year. You can find this information on the vehicle's registration, insurance documents, or on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb. It is very likely you own a different Pontiac model that was produced during the 1982-1986 period.
Possible Pontiac Models from 1982-1986:
- Pontiac 6000
- Pontiac Bonneville
- Pontiac Firebird
- Pontiac Grand Prix
- Pontiac Phoenix
- Pontiac J2000 / Sunbird
Once you have confirmed the correct model and year, you can search for the appropriate drum brake hardware kit. Parts for these vehicles are generally available from aftermarket suppliers.
Why Replacing Hardware is Critical for Any Model
For any car with drum brakes, the hardware is just as important as the brake shoes themselves. The springs in the kit go through millions of cycles and are constantly exposed to heat. This causes them to lose tension over time. Reusing old, weak hardware with new brake shoes is a common mistake that leads to poor brake performance, noise, and premature wear of your new parts. A new hardware kit is inexpensive and ensures your brake job is done right the first time.
Pro Tip: Always replace the drum brake hardware kit as a set whenever you install new brake shoes. One kit typically services both rear wheels, but always check the product description to be sure.
| Brand | General Reputation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carlson | Good | A common and reliable choice for brake hardware. |
| Dorman | Good | Offers a wide range of direct-fit replacement parts, including brake hardware kits. |
| Raybestos | Good | A well-known brand in braking components, offering quality hardware kits. |
| ACDelco | Good | Offers both OEM parts for GM vehicles and high-quality aftermarket lines. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't I find a drum brake hardware kit for my 1985 Pontiac Tempest?
You cannot find parts specifically listed for a 1985 Pontiac Tempest because the vehicle was not produced in that year. Production in North America stopped in 1970 and did not resume until 1987 in Canada. You likely have a different Pontiac model, such as a Pontiac 6000 or Bonneville, which were common during that time.
What are the signs of a failing drum brake hardware kit?
Common symptoms include scraping or grinding noises from the rear wheels, a soft or spongy brake pedal, a parking brake that feels loose or doesn't hold the car, and brakes that seem to drag or not release fully.
What parts are in a typical drum brake hardware kit?
A complete kit usually contains all the necessary springs (return springs, hold-down springs), pins, clips, and washers needed to service the drum brakes on both rear wheels. Some kits may also include components for the self-adjuster mechanism.
Were there any recalls for brakes on Pontiacs from 1982-1986?
There are no recalls for a 1982-1986 Pontiac Tempest because the vehicle was not made. Searches for other Pontiac models of that era, like the Bonneville, show a 1985 recall for potential corrosion on the rear brake backing plates, but not for the hardware kit itself. Any issues today are typically due to age and normal wear.
Technical Specifications
No specifications exist for a 1982-1986 Pontiac Tempest. For other Pontiac models, a kit typically includes return springs, hold-down springs, clips, and pins for both rear wheels.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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