drum brake removal tool autozone

Understanding Drum Brake Removal Tools A Guide from AutoZone

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, one of the key aspects that every car owner needs to be familiar with is the braking system. Drum brakes are commonly found on older vehicles and some lighter modern cars. Over time, these brakes may require service, including the replacement or adjustment of brake shoes. This process can seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can perform drum brake maintenance effectively. In this article, we’ll discuss the important drum brake removal tools available at AutoZone and how to use them.

What Are Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes consist of several components, including the brake drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, springs, and hardware. Unlike disc brakes, drum brakes use friction to slow down the vehicle within a drum-shaped component. Over time, brake shoes wear down, and the drum may also accumulate dirt or corrosion, leading to decreased performance. Routine maintenance and removal of the drum are essential for keeping your brakes in good working order.

Essential Drum Brake Removal Tools

To effectively remove drum brakes, you will need a few essential tools. AutoZone offers a variety of high-quality tools that are specifically designed for drum brake maintenance. Here are some items you might consider

1. Drum Brake Tool Kit This kit often includes items such as a brake spring tool, a brake shoe spreader, and an adjusting tool. Each component is designed to make the removal and installation of brake parts easier and safer.

2. Brake Drum Puller When the brake drum is stuck due to corrosion or wear, a brake drum puller is needed to safely extract it. This tool applies even pressure, ensuring that the drum is removed without causing damage to other components.

3. Ratchet and Socket Set These are essential for removing bolts that hold the brake drum and other components in place. Make sure to use the correct size to avoid stripping the bolts.

4. Screwdrivers Both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers can help remove any small screws and fasteners that may be holding the drum or the shoes in place.

5. Pliers Needle-nose pliers are particularly useful for handling small springs and hardware components that can be tricky to grip.

6. Brake Cleaner Once the drum is removed, it’s important to clean the components thoroughly before reinstalling or replacing parts. Brake cleaner helps remove dust, oil, and debris that can affect brake performance.

7. Safety Gear Don’t forget important safety equipment such as gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from dust and debris.

The Removal Process

Now that you are equipped with the right tools, let’s outline the basic steps to remove drum brakes

1. Safety First Park your vehicle on a flat surface, apply the parking brake, and wear safety gear. If you're working on the rear brakes, ensure the front wheels are chocked.

2. Remove the Wheel Use a lug wrench to take off the lug nuts and remove the wheel. This will expose the brake drum.

3. Inspect and Remove the Drum Check for any retaining screws. If none are present, you may need to use the brake drum puller if the drum is stuck. Always apply gradual pressure to avoid damaging the brake assembly.

4. Remove the Brake Shoes After the drum is removed, you can see the brake shoes. Use the drum brake tool kit to remove the springs and any attaching hardware carefully.

5. Clean and Replace Clean all components with brake cleaner and inspect for wear. If necessary, replace the brake shoes and any other damaged parts before reassembling.

6. Reassembly Follow your removal steps in reverse order to reinstall the drum, shoes, and wheel. Ensure everything is tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

Maintaining your drum brakes can significantly enhance your vehicle's performance and safety. With the right drum brake removal tools from AutoZone, you can tackle this task confidently and efficiently. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions related to your model. With practice, you will become proficient in brake maintenance, ultimately saving you time and money while ensuring your car remains safe on the road.