Parts for your 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero-Brake wheel cylinders

1995 Mitsubishi Pajero Brake Wheel Cylinders

Based on technical sources — including the Mitsubishi Pajero V20-series Workshop Manual (1991–1999), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and Gregory’s/Haynes repair manuals — many 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero variants run rear drum brakes, which use brake wheel cylinders. Higher-spec trims in some markets were fitted with rear disc brakes, which don’t use wheel cylinders. So, for a large number of 1995 Pajeros seen across Australia and New Zealand (particularly base and diesel models), brake wheel cylinders are very much relevant, for models with rear discs, this part isn’t used.

On Pajeros fitted with rear drums, the brake wheel cylinder is the little hydraulic workhorse inside each rear drum. When the driver hits the pedal, brake fluid pressure pushes the cylinder’s pistons outward, forcing the shoes onto the drum to slow the vehicle. It’s a simple bit of kit that cops a tough life: heat, dust, moisture, and age can cause seals to harden or the bore to corrode, leading to leaks or sticking.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rear drums for any tell-tale dampness, weeping dust boots, or uneven shoe wear. If there’s fluid inside the drum or the shoes are contaminated, the wheel cylinders should be rebuilt (where serviceable) or replaced outright. Most techs replace them in axle pairs to keep braking even. After any cylinder work, bleed the system properly and top up with the correct spec brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4 as shown on the reservoir cap/owner’s manual).

• Common symptoms of failing wheel cylinders:
  • Spongy or sinking brake pedal
  • Rear-end pull under braking
  • Brake fluid traces or damp dust inside the drum
  • Uneven rear shoe wear
• Good practice during service:
  • Inspect every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service
  • Flush brake fluid every 24 months
  • Check shoe lining thickness, springs and adjusters
  • Measure drum ID and compare with the service limit, machine or replace if over spec

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: safely support the vehicle, remove the drum and shoes, disconnect the line, swap the cylinder, then reassemble and bleed. On ABS-equipped Pajeros, follow the manual’s bleeding sequence. If the cylinders are repeatedly sticking, consider replacing the flexible brake hoses and confirming the rear brake adjustment is spot-on. Keeping these cylinders healthy helps the Pajero stop straight and true, on-road and out bush.

Popular questions

Does a 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero have brake wheel cylinders?
Many do. If the vehicle has rear drum brakes, it uses wheel cylinders. If it has rear disc brakes, it won’t — the rear uses calipers instead. A quick look through the wheel or at the rear hub will tell the story.

How often should wheel cylinders be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect each service, replace or rebuild if they’re leaking, seized, or pitted. Many owners choose to refresh both sides together for consistent braking.

What brake fluid should be used after replacing wheel cylinders?
Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 as specified on the reservoir cap or owner’s manual. In Australia and New Zealand, DOT 4 is commonly used, don’t mix fluid types beyond the manufacturer’s guidance.