Degreasing brakes

[Chris KC]

Surely the only bit that needs to be grease free (apart from the linings) is the inside braking surface of the drum?  I just wipe off any excess grease on the rest, but have been known to resort to a very light buffing (with emery paper) of the drum if it has rubbed shiny.  Does this seem sensible or am I missing something?  

Colin

Quite so Colin, unless the accumulated amount elsewhere seems at risk of migrating onto aforementioned surfaces, under conditions of heating for example.

+1 for proprietary brake cleaner, you don't want to be using anything which leaves any kind of oily residue.

And yes if the drums have become glazed a light 'hone' with fine emery will at least do no harm.