how to replace rear wheel studs with drum brakes

Replacing rear wheel studs on a vehicle with drum brakes is a process that can be accomplished with some basic tools and a little patience. It’s important to ensure safety and proper technique to maintain the functionality of your braking system. Whether you are doing this due to damaged studs, wheel stud breakage, or upgrading to a stronger alternative, this guide will help you through the steps involved.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Hammer 4. Pliers 5. Socket set 6. Torque wrench 7. New wheel studs 8. Brake cleaner (optional) 9. Anti-seize lubricant (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Safety First Before starting any work on your vehicle, ensure it is parked on a flat surface and the engine is turned off. Engage the parking brake and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel. Do not remove them completely at this stage, as the wheel should still be secured while it is on the ground.

3. Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle until it's high enough for you to safely work underneath it. Once elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle for added security.

4. Remove the Wheel Completely detach the lug nuts and remove the wheel from the hub. Set it aside in a safe location.

5. Access the Drum If necessary, remove the brake drum by unscrewing any retaining screws and sliding it off the wheel hub. If the drum is stuck, a few taps with a hammer around the edges may help to loosen it.

6. Remove Old Wheel Studs Once the drum is off, you may now see the wheel hub. The wheel studs are typically held in place with a locking mechanism on the back. Use pliers to remove any retaining clips if present. If the studs are damaged or broken, use a hammer to tap them out from the front of the hub.

7. Install New Wheel Studs Take your new wheel studs and insert them from the back of the hub into the holes where the old studs were removed. Make sure they are seated properly.

8. Reassemble the Drum Once the new studs are in place, reattach the brake drum, ensuring everything is securely put back together. Replace any retaining screws.

9. Put the Wheel Back On Place the wheel back onto the hub, aligning it with the new studs. Hand-tighten the lug nuts.

10. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle off the jack stands using the jack.

11. Tighten the Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

Conclusion

Replacing rear wheel studs on vehicles with drum brakes is a manageable task if precautions are taken. Always prioritize safety, and ensure that everything is meticulously reassembled to maintain driving safety. If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any steps, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable. Regular maintenance and inspections of your vehicle’s braking system can prevent many issues related to wheel studs and overall brake performance.