Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Brake wheel cylinders

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero brake wheel cylinders

Based on technical references including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual (1982–1991, Brake section), the Haynes Repair Manual for Mitsubishi Montero/Pajero 1983–1991, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for L040-series vehicles, the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero runs front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Those rear drums use hydraulic brake wheel cylinders. So, brake wheel cylinders are absolutely relevant and fitted to this model.

The brake wheel cylinders on a 1987 Pajero sit inside the rear drum assemblies and turn hydraulic pressure into shoe movement. When the driver hits the pedal, fluid pressure pushes the pistons outwards, forcing the shoes onto the drum to slow the vehicle. It’s a simple, tough setup that suits touring and off-road use, but the cylinders do live a hard life—heat, moisture and grit can corrode the bores and harden the seals over time.

As part of regular servicing, the rear brakes deserve a keen look. Tell-tales of tired wheel cylinders include a damp or weeping dust boot, brake fluid on the backing plate or inside the drum, a spongy or sinking pedal, the Pajero pulling to one side under brakes, or shoes contaminated with fluid. There’s no strict replacement kilometre, but they should be inspected at each service or any time the drums are off, and the brake fluid should be refreshed every two years. If the vehicle tows, wades creeks, or sits for long stretches, checks matter even more.

• Use a proper flare-nut spanner on the brake line to avoid rounding.
• Plug the line once disconnected to limit fluid loss and mess.
• Inspect bores and pistons, light corrosion may be rebuildable.
• Fit new shoes if they’re oil-soaked, and clean the drum with brake cleaner.
• After refit, bleed starting at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder.
• Adjust the shoe clearance and then set the handbrake properly.
• Wear a mask—older linings may contain asbestos, avoid compressed-air dusting.

In Australia and New Zealand, many owners either replace the cylinders or have them re-sleeved in stainless for long life. Rebuild kits are fine if the bore is sound, if it’s pitted, replacement is the safer bet. Stick with quality DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid as specified in the manual (don’t use silicone DOT 5), and remember some Pajeros run a load-sensing proportioning valve—bleeding and rear height settings should be correct so pedal feel and rear bias stay consistent.

Popular questions about 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero brake wheel cylinders

Do 1987 Pajeros actually have brake wheel cylinders?
Yes. The first-gen Pajero typically uses front discs and rear drum brakes, and those rear drums are actuated by hydraulic wheel cylinders. This layout is confirmed in factory service literature and parts catalogues for L040-series vehicles.

How often should wheel cylinders be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect them any time the rear drums are off and at regular services. Replace or rebuild if you see leaks, sticky operation, or pitting. Refresh brake fluid every two years to slow internal corrosion and keep the pistons moving freely.

Is rebuilding worth it, or should they just be replaced?
Both options are valid. If the bores are clean, a seal kit can be economical. If they’re pitted, replacement—or a stainless re-sleeve, which is popular in AU/NZ—delivers a more durable result, especially for vehicles used off-road or near the coast.