how to get the drum off rear brake

How to Get the Drum Off Rear Brake A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing the drum from your vehicle's rear brake can seem a bit daunting, but with the right tools and steps, it’s a manageable task. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can perform the removal safely and efficiently.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before diving in, make sure you have the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Drum brake puller (optional but helpful) - Screwdriver (flathead preferred) - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Clean rags - Safety gloves and goggles

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

Safety should always be your first concern when working on a vehicle. Park your car on a flat, stable surface and set the parking brake to prevent it from rolling.

Step 2 Loosen the Wheel Lug Nuts

Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel where the drum is located. It’s advisable to do this while the wheel is still on the ground to prevent the wheel from rotating. Do not completely remove the lug nuts at this point.

Step 3 Lift the Vehicle

Once the lug nuts are loosened, use the jack to lift the back of the vehicle. Securely place jack stands beneath the vehicle to ensure stability. After ensuring the car is secure, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 4 Inspect the Rear Brake Drum

Before removing the drum, take a moment to inspect it for any visible damage or wear

. Look for any signs of rust, cracks, or other issues that may indicate a need for replacement.

Step 5 Remove the Drum

In many cases, the drum will simply slide off. However, if it’s stuck due to rust or wear, you may need to tap it gently with a rubber mallet or use a drum brake puller to encourage it to come loose.

how to get the drum off rear brake

1. If tapping, do so around the circumference of the drum to loosen it from the backing plate. 2. If using a puller, position the arms of the puller against the drum and turn the center screw until the drum begins to pull away from the hub.

Step 6 Disconnect the Brake Components (if necessary)

If your drum does not come off after gentle persuasion, you may need to disconnect certain components

1. Remove the Adjuster Locate the adjustment mechanism and turn it to disengage the shoes. This typically involves turning a star wheel found inside the drum. 2. Disconnect the Springs Using pliers, carefully remove the springs that hold the brake shoes in place, taking note of their configuration for reassembly.

3. Check for Other Attachments Ensure there are no other attached components or clips holding the drum in place.

Step 7 Clean and Inspect

With the drum removed, take the opportunity to clean the internal components using brake cleaner. This will help remove any dust and debris that could affect braking performance. Inspect the brake shoes and hardware for wear and damage.

Step 8 Reassemble or Replace

If you’re replacing the drum, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. If you’re reusing it, ensure that it’s in good condition and free of cracks or severe wear.

1. Reattach Brake Components Follow the reverse order of disassembly to reconnect any springs or adjusters removed earlier. 2. Reinstall the Drum Slide the drum back onto the hub, ensuring it fits snugly.

Step 9 Reattach the Wheel

Once the drum is securely in place, reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground and use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Conclusion

Removing the rear brake drum is a task that can save you time and money if done correctly. Always remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and double-check your work. With practice, this task will become part of your regular vehicle maintenance toolkit. If at any point you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional mechanic. Happy repairing!