how to change drum brake

How to Change Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing drum brakes might sound intimidating, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can tackle the job yourself. This task not only saves you money on labor costs but also gives you a sense of accomplishment once completed. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you change your drum brakes effectively.

What You Will Need

Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials

- New brake shoes - Brake cleaner - Brake grease - Tire iron - Wrench set - Screwdriver - Drum puller (if necessary) - Jack and jack stands - Safety glasses - Shop rags or paper towels

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure you wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris. 2. Park the Vehicle Choose a flat, stable surface to work on. Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Use a tire iron to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on, but do not remove them completely at this stage.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Jack the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the car from the designated lift points. Consult your owner’s manual for guidance if necessary. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Once elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle for safety before removing the wheel.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

1. Take Off the Wheel Finish unscrewing the lug nuts and remove the wheel to access the drum brakes.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Before removal, inspect the condition of the drum and check for signs of wear or scoring. 2. Remove the Drum Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove retaining screws if present. If the drum is stuck, gently tap around its edges with a hammer or use a drum puller for leverage.

Step 5 Inspect and Disconnect the Components

1. Examine Brake Components Check the brake hardware and shoes for wear. Look for cracks, uneven wear patterns, or other damage. 2. Disconnect the Brake Shoes Release the springs and clips holding the brake shoes in place. Use caution as they can be under tension. 3. Carefully Remove the Shoes Take off the old brake shoes. Note how they are configured for easy reassembly.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Prepare the New Shoes Before installing new shoes, clean the backing plate and apply brake grease to the contact points. 2. Install New Shoes Position the new shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Reattach the springs, clips, and adjusters as necessary. 3. Ensure Proper Movement Make sure the shoes can move freely and aren't binding against the backing plate.

Step 7 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Reattach the Brake Drum Place the drum back onto the wheel hub. If the drum feels tight, you may need to adjust the star wheel adjuster to provide enough clearance. 2. Check for Proper Fit Ensure that the drum spins without resistance, as a properly fitted drum is crucial for efficient braking.

Step 8 Reattach the Wheel and Lower the Vehicle

1. Put the Wheel Back Position the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack and remove the jack stands before fully tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even distribution.

Step 9 Test the Brakes

1. Pump the Brakes Once the wheel is back on and secured, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new brake shoes against the drum. 2. Test Drive Take the vehicle for a short, cautious drive to test the braking system. Listen for any unusual noises and check for proper performance.

Conclusion

Changing drum brakes may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and approach, it can be an achievable DIY project. Regular maintenance of your braking system is crucial for safe driving, so don’t hesitate to tackle this task when necessary. Remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications, and always prioritize safety throughout the process. Enjoy your newfound skills and the satisfaction of working on your vehicle!