how to change front drum brakes

How to Change Front Drum Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Changing front drum brakes might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, you can do it yourself and save on labor costs. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your safety and the longevity of your vehicle's braking system.

Why Change Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes are an essential component of a vehicle's braking system. Over time, the brake shoes wear down due to friction and heat generated during braking. If you notice squeaking, grinding, or a decrease in braking efficiency, it’s time for a change. Regular maintenance not only enhances safety but also improves vehicle performance.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the job, gather the following tools and materials

1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Brake cleaner 4. Drum brake kit (including new brake shoes, springs, and possibly a drum) 5. Screwdriver set 6. Pliers 7. Torque wrench 8. Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.

2. Lifting the Vehicle Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the drum brakes (do not remove them completely yet). Then, using a jack, lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.

3. Remove the Wheel Once the vehicle is secure, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. This will expose the drum brake assembly.

4. Inspecting the Drum Before removing the drum, inspect it for any visible cracks or significant wear. If the drum is damaged, it may need to be replaced along with the brake shoes.

5. Removing the Brake Drum If the drum doesn’t slide off easily, there might be a retaining screw holding it in place. Remove any screws if present. If necessary, tap the drum lightly with a rubber mallet to loosen it.

6. Removing Old Brake Shoes With the drum removed, you can see the brake shoes. Take a photo of the assembly for reference. Carefully unhook the springs and remove the old brake shoes. Be cautious, as the springs can be under tension.

7. Installing New Brake Shoes Install the new brake shoes in the same order as the old ones, using the reference photo as a guide. Reattach the springs, ensuring they are secure but not overly tight.

8. Cleaning the Drum Before reinstallation, clean the inside of the drum with brake cleaner to remove any debris or dust. Allow it to dry completely.

9. Reinstalling the Drum Slide the cleaned drum back onto the wheel hub, ensuring it fits snugly. If applicable, reinsert the retaining screw.

10. Reattaching the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

11. Testing the Brakes Before taking the vehicle for a drive, pump the brakes a few times to set the shoes against the drum. Check for any unusual noises or issues.

12. Final Safety Check After a short test drive, check the brake performance again. Ensure everything is functioning smoothly, and address any concerns immediately.

Conclusion

Changing front drum brakes is a manageable DIY task that can enhance your vehicle's performance and safety. By following this guide carefully and taking proper safety precautions, you can gain hands-on experience while saving money on auto repairs. Remember, if at any point you feel unsure, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic. Happy wrenching!