how to get brake drum off

How to Get a Brake Drum Off A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing a brake drum can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, you can accomplish it effectively. Follow this guide to safely get your brake drum off and ensure your vehicle stops smoothly.

Tools Required 1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Brake drum puller (optional, but recommended) 4. Screwdriver 5. Clean cloths 6. Brake cleaner

Step 1 Safety First Before you begin, make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, and engage the parking brake. If you're working on the front wheels, block the rear wheels to prevent any movement.

Step 2 Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that you will be working on. Do not remove them completely yet; just break the initial torque.

Step 3 Lift the Vehicle Next, use a jack to lift the vehicle. Once it’s off the ground, place jack stands underneath for additional safety. Ensure the vehicle is stable before you proceed.

Step 4 Remove the Wheel Now, remove the loosened lug nuts completely, and take the wheel off. You should now see the brake drum.

Step 5 Inspect the Brake Drum Before removing the brake drum, inspect it for any visible signs of damage or wear. If your brake shoes are worn, now is a good time to consider replacing them.

Step 6 Remove the Brake Drum Brake drums can sometimes be stuck due to rust or debris. If the drum won't come off easily, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to break the corrosion. If it’s still stuck, you might want to use a brake drum puller. Position the puller across the drum and tighten the center bolt until the drum pops off.

Step 7 Clean and Inspect Once the brake drum is off, clean the area with brake cleaner to remove dust and debris. This step is crucial to ensuring that new brake components function properly.

Step 8 Reassemble If you are replacing the brake shoes, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Once all necessary replacements are made, reinstall the brake drum by aligning it properly and pressing it into place.

Step 9 Reinstall the Wheel Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and then use the lug wrench to secure the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.

Step 10 Test the Brakes Once everything is in place, it's important to test the brakes by gently pressing the pedal before driving off.

In conclusion, removing a brake drum requires attention to detail and safety. With this guide, you should feel more confident tackling this task on your own. Remember, if you encounter any serious issues or are uncertain about any steps, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.