Just popped off off the right rear drum and was about to start removing the old wheel cylinder and put on the GM I got from NAPA. Looking at it all I am somewhat hesitant. Is there a writeup on this with pics? I am wanting to do it as easy as possible. Do I have to remove the pads completely? Help...

 

Did mine yesterday. Just took both drums off then made sure the bolts on the cylinders loosened up, the brake lines too. Then unhooked the two springs to get the shoes back a bit then removed the cyclinder, did every thing in reverse to put the new ones in. Had to wiggle one side a bit to get it home. Bleed the cyclinders last. Took about and hour. Cost $13 Canadian each. Wow was it worth it.

 

It's pretty simple, just do as Bob said. I've found needle nose vicegrips to be the best for removing the springs, use a screwdriver to pry on the vicegrips if your muscles aren't enough. Just make sure everything is where it belongs before reinstalling the springs, take a picture or use the other side as an example.
I also leave the bleed screw open on the new cylinders till fluid comes out, takes a while, do something else in the meantime, but will make bleeding a zero or one pump deal.

 

Well I got it done. Must say the drum removal technique from infidel was sweet. I found it doing a search. Drums came off, no hammering or prying. I could see how the drum could really go flying if you didn't put on a lug. As for the GM / NAPA brake cylinder it is also sweet. Stops really well. Pedal feels really good and response is definately a lot more there. I think I should have put pads on while I was there but didn't have them so maybe next time. thanks to all who replied on this. This was my first mod...

 

First mod is done! Is the slippery slope dragging you down yet? Are you feeling the need for plates, springs, injectors, turbos, etc?
Diesel hotrods RULE!!