how to take drum brakes apart

How to Take Drum Brakes Apart A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to maintain or repair your vehicle, understanding how to take drum brakes apart is a fundamental skill. Drum brakes are commonly used in older vehicles and are still found in some newer models for rear wheels. This guide will walk you through the process of taking drum brakes apart safely and efficiently.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - C-clamp or brake spring tool - Pliers - Safety glasses - Gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure you’re wearing safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from dust and debris. 2. Park on Level Ground Park your vehicle on a flat surface and set the parking brake. 3. Loosen Lug Nuts Using the lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you’ll be working but do not remove them yet.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Jack Up the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Place jack stands underneath the vehicle for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

1. Take Off Lug Nuts Now that the vehicle is securely lifted, remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. Set it aside in a safe place.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Drum Before removing, check for rust or damage. Use a brake cleaner to spray it down and clean it up. 2. Remove the Retaining Screws If your brake drum has retaining screws, remove them using a screwdriver. 3. Detach the Drum Gently pull the drum outward. If it’s stuck, tap it lightly with a rubber mallet. Be cautious not to damage the drum.

Step 5 Take Apart the Brake Assembly

1. Understand the Setup Before disassembling, take a picture of the setup for reference later. This can help you when reassembling. 2. Remove Springs and Shoes Carefully remove the return springs using pliers or a brake spring tool. Next, slide out the brake shoes from their positions. 3. Detach the Adjuster If there is an adjuster mechanism, carefully remove it while noting its orientation for reinstallation.

Step 6 Clean and Inspect Components

1. Clean All Parts Use brake cleaner to clean the brake drum, shoes, and all components. Inspect everything for wear and damage. Replace any worn parts if necessary.

Step 7 Reassemble the Drum Brakes

1. Follow Your Reference Photo Reinstall the brake shoes, adjuster, and springs in the reverse order of disassembly. Ensure everything is tight and secure. 2. Reattach the Drum Once the assembly is back together, slide the drum back into place and secure it with retaining screws if applicable. 3. Replace the Wheel Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

Step 8 Lower the Vehicle

1. Remove Jack Stands Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands. 2. Tighten Lug Nuts Once on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern for even pressure.

Conclusion

Taking drum brakes apart may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a systematic approach, it can be done successfully. Always remember to prioritize safety and consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. With practice, this skill will become an invaluable part of your vehicle maintenance routine.