Brake canister repair

[AH64-longbow]

I have a M928 A2 am replacing the rubber diaphragms in the air braking system, no issues with the chamber/ for the service brake part, however the parking peaks/ service brake chamber / canister I am finding it difficult to remove the canister / chamber part where the rubber diaphragm sits (pancake) . I bought new whilst in the U.S. am back in PNG. If anyone on here has carried out this work, I would greatly appreciate any advice and or counsel. I don’t have the means at this point to replace all canisters. There is an air leak on the service/ parking brake chamber.

 

[AH64-longbow]

I have the caging bolt inserted and tightened, the canister has two ears/ hooks (factory made) that when I loosen the C-clamps holding canister to table (yes) it’ll there is a gap that developes and the rubber diaphragm (pancake) , loosens, BUT no spacing to remove ?? What am I not doing? Please advise, before any reply, firstly thank you for considering my request. Cheers

 

[AH64-longbow]

I have managed to remove the parking brake canister, not sure how others do it, but there are two locking tabs ( ears) or hooks that prevent the canister from coming apart. I torqued down the cage bolt, put C-clamps on opposite sides of the canister, tightened and put inside a big bottle vise. I cut off the Aluminium tabs, hooks, so the two parts could seperate. Slowly loosened the C-clamps simultaneously with the Vise until the canister chambers were apart. I was able to remove the pancake / diaphragm. I will clean, replace the diaphragm reassemble and weld back the hooks (for safety) I can load pics for anyone wanting if interested. Cheers