Rear brake problem

[D3v1n]

I wonder if someone could help me with this problem.

My 01 Grand vitara developed a knocking noise from one of the back wheels a while ago.

When I opened up the drum to inspect I saw that the two C-shaped retaining springs that hold the shoes in position where completely slack. The shoe was not sitting straight in the drums and so was catching on the axle as it went around. (hence the noise) I've replaced both shoes and springs on both sides. However when I took one side apart again I found the same thing had happened. The little C shaped spring was completely squashed.
I have double checked the fitment of all the parts with the manual so everything is in he right place. Is this a design flaw and is there away around it?
Right now my brakes work fine but the noise of the shoe hitting the axle is very annoying.
Could I replace the springs with a nut and bolt with enough play?

Cheers

[Rhinoman]

I had a similar problem with my Jimny and someone had fitted the wrong clips, the pins were too long and one of the clips had fallen off.

[Stung]

i drove a vitara recently and experienced fading of handbrake grip after about 10 minutes when parked- has anyone else encountered this problem?

[Rhinoman]

Does it have rear discs?