I have never tried putting it together that way. those springs inside the cylinders want to pop the pistons out when there is nothing holding them in.

I used the brake spring tool as in the manual but it took a little divot out of the lining. Some folks put something on the lining to stop the tool from digging in.

1951 GMC 1 Ton Flatbed -- It is finally on the road and what a great time I have driving it!
1951 1 Ton Completed

My Chevy Master 4 Door is on the Road!