how to change wheel cylinder on drum brakes

How to Change the Wheel Cylinder on Drum Brakes

Changing the wheel cylinder on drum brakes is an essential maintenance task that every vehicle owner should learn to perform. The wheel cylinder plays a crucial role in the braking system by pushing the brake shoes against the drum, allowing for effective braking. Over time, these components can wear out or leak, leading to reduced braking performance or, in extreme cases, brake failure. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the wheel cylinder on drum brakes step by step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before beginning the procedure, gather the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Dead blow hammer or rubber mallet - Wrench set - Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips) - New wheel cylinder - New brake shoes (optional, but recommended) - Brake fluid - Clean rag

Step 1 Preparation

Start by parking your vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be working, but do not completely remove them yet. Next, jack up the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the drum brake assembly.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

If the drum is stuck, gently tap it with a dead blow hammer or rubber mallet to dislodge it. Once the drum is free, slide it off the axle. Be careful not to damage the brake shoes or springs attached to the drum.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Assembly

Before removing the old wheel cylinder, take a moment to inspect the entire brake assembly for any damage or excessive wear. If the brake shoes show significant wear, consider replacing them at the same time as the wheel cylinder.

Locate the wheel cylinder, which is usually mounted on the rear of the brake assembly. Use the appropriate wrench to remove the mounting bolts or nuts securing the wheel cylinder in place. Disconnect the brake lines attached to the wheel cylinder—be prepared for some brake fluid to leak, so have a rag handy to wipe up any spills. Once everything is detached, carefully remove the old wheel cylinder from the assembly.

Step 5 Install the New Wheel Cylinder

Take your new wheel cylinder and position it in the same location as the old one. Secure it with the mounting bolts or nuts, ensuring that it is tight but not overly forceful to avoid damaging the component. Reconnect the brake lines, and be sure to use new copper washers if needed to ensure a tight seal.

Step 6 Reassemble the Brake Components

If you decided to replace the brake shoes, now is the time to install them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or take note of how the old shoes were positioned. Once everything is back together, reattach the brake drum and wheel.

Step 7 Refill and Bleed the Brakes

After reassembling, refill the brake fluid reservoir with fresh brake fluid. To remove any air from the braking system, bleed the brakes by starting at the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and working your way closer. This process requires a second person to help pump the brake pedal while you open and close the bleed valve.

Step 8 Test Drive

Finally, lower the vehicle back to the ground and replace the wheel. Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper brake engagement. Once done, take your vehicle on a short test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you can effectively change the wheel cylinder on your drum brakes, contributing to better vehicle safety and performance. Always remember to consult your vehicle's service manual for specifications and torque settings to ensure proper installation.