Steps to Reinstall Springs on Your Drum Brake System Efficiently

How to Put Springs Back on Drum Brakes

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, understanding how to work on drum brakes is essential, especially when it comes to replacing or reinstalling the springs. Drum brakes, while often considered old-fashioned compared to disc brakes, are still widely used in many vehicles due to their effectiveness and simplicity. This guide will walk you through the process of putting springs back on drum brakes, ensuring your braking system functions effectively.

Tools Needed

Before you get started, it’s important to gather the necessary tools

1. Safety goggles Protect your eyes from debris. 2. Work gloves For safety and improved grip. 3. Pliers Needle-nose pliers are essential for handling springs. 4. Brake spring tool This specialized tool can help make the job easier. 5. Wrenches and sockets For removing brake drum and components. 6. Lubricant To apply on pivot points for smoother operation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Workspace Ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface with the parking brake applied. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels before lifting the vehicle with a jack. Once lifted, remove the wheels.

2. Remove the Brake Drum Once the wheels are off, you may need to remove the brake drum. Depending on your vehicle, this may require you to tap around the drum with a rubber mallet to loosen any corrosion or debris.

3. Inspect the Components Take this opportunity to inspect the brake shoes, springs, and other components for any wear and tear. If you notice any damaged pieces, consider replacing them before reinstalling the springs.

4. Reinstalling the Springs - Identify the Springs Drum brakes typically have a primary and secondary spring. The primary spring is usually longer and installed in the bottom position to retract the brake shoes. The secondary spring is shorter and goes at the top. - Attach the Primary Spring Use your brake spring tool or needle-nose pliers to attach one end of the primary spring to the anchor point on the back of the brake assembly. Pull the spring across to the brake shoe and secure the other end in place. You may need to compress the spring slightly to fit it onto the shoe. - Attach the Secondary Spring Repeat the process for the secondary spring, ensuring it is attached properly to both the brake shoes and the anchor points.

5. Final Assembly Once the springs are secured, double-check their placement to ensure they are not twisted or rubbing against any other components. Then, replace the brake drum over the shoes, making sure everything fits snugly.

6. Reattach the Wheels With the drum in place, reattach the wheels and lower your vehicle. Make sure to tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.

7. Test Your Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the shoes are properly seated against the drum. This step is crucial for making sure your brakes perform effectively.

Conclusion

Reinstalling springs on drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a methodical approach, it can be a straightforward task. Regular maintenance of your braking system is important for your vehicle's safety, and being able to manage simple repairs like this can save you time and money down the road. Always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you are unsure about any step in the process.