how to change rear drum brakes on jeep patriot

How to Change Rear Drum Brakes on a Jeep Patriot

Changing the rear drum brakes on a Jeep Patriot is an essential maintenance task that can improve your vehicle's safety and performance. Over time, brake components wear out and need replacing. If you're comfortable with basic mechanical work, you can tackle this job yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to change the rear drum brakes on your Jeep Patriot.

Tools and Materials Needed Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials - Socket set - Ratchet - Brake drum puller - Screwdriver - Pliers - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - New brake drum (if necessary) - Jack and jack stands - Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Safety First Ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area and wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself. Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of your Jeep Patriot off the ground. Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure it’s stable while you work. Remove the rear wheels by unscrewing the lug nuts completely.

Step 3 Remove Brake Drum With the wheel off, you can now access the brake drum. In some cases, you may need to tap the drum lightly with a hammer to loosen it, especially if it has been stuck due to rust. Once loose, pull the drum straight off to expose the brake components.

Step 4 Inspect and Remove Old Parts Inspect the brake shoes and components for wear or damage. Using your pliers and screwdriver, carefully remove the old brake shoes and any associated springs or hardware. Take note of the setup for reinstallation or take a picture for reference.

Step 5 Clean the Area Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the brake assembly, removing any dust or debris. This is crucial for the proper functioning of your new brake parts.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes Begin installing the new brake shoes, following the pattern you observed during disassembly. Ensure all springs and retainers are properly positioned. Tighten any hardware according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 7 Replace Brake Drum Once the new shoes are in place, slide the brake drum back on. Check to ensure the drum rotates freely without any rubbing against the shoes.

Step 8 Reassemble and Test Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. Before driving, pump the brakes a few times to seat the brake shoes properly.

Conclusion Changing the rear drum brakes on a Jeep Patriot can save you money and ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. With the right tools and attention to detail, you can complete this task efficiently. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. Happy wrenching!