how do you bleed rear drum brakes

How Do You Bleed Rear Drum Brakes?

Bleeding the rear drum brakes of a vehicle is an essential maintenance procedure that helps to ensure optimal braking performance. Over time, air can enter the brake lines, leading to a spongy brake pedal and diminished stopping power. This article will guide you through the process of bleeding rear drum brakes, step by step, ensuring your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.

What You Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and supplies

1. Jack and jack stands 2. Wheel chocks 3. Lug wrench 4. Brake bleeder kit or a clear plastic tube and a container 5. Brake fluid 6. Safety glasses and gloves 7. A helper (optional, but recommended)

Safety First

Before beginning any brake work, safety is paramount. Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent movement. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from brake fluid, which can damage paint and irritate skin.

1. Lift and Secure the Vehicle Begin by loosening the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground. Next, use the jack to lift the rear of the car and secure it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels to access the drum brakes.

2. Locate the Bleeder Valve Once the drums are exposed, locate the bleeder valve on each wheel cylinder. This valve is typically a small metal nipple that allows brake fluid to escape from the system.

3. Prepare the Bleeder Kit If you’re using a brake bleeder kit, connect the tube to the bleeder valve and place the other end in a container to catch the expelled brake fluid. If you don’t have a kit, you can use a clear plastic tube and a container in the same manner.

4. Fill the Brake Fluid Reservoir Open the hood and locate the brake fluid reservoir. Remove the cap and ensure it is filled with fresh brake fluid to the appropriate level. It’s important to use the correct type of brake fluid specified in your vehicle’s manual.

5. Start Bleeding Instruct your helper to pump the brake pedal several times and then hold it down. Open the bleeder valve with a wrench just enough to allow brake fluid and air to escape. Always brief your helper to let you know when they feel the pedal drop. Close the valve before they release the pedal to prevent air from entering the system. Repeat this process until you see a steady stream of brake fluid without bubbles, indicating that all the air has been purged from the line.

6. Check Fluid Levels Periodically check the brake fluid reservoir while bleeding the brakes, adding more fluid as necessary to avoid letting the level drop too low, which can reintroduce air into the lines.

7. Repeat for Each Wheel After successfully bleeding one side, move to the opposite rear wheel and repeat the process. If your vehicle has a specific bleeding order, make sure to follow it. Generally, it is recommended to start with the wheel farthest from the brake master cylinder and work your way closer.

8. Final Checks Once you have bled both rear drum brakes, check that the brake pedal feels firm when pressed. Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even torque.

9. Test Drive After completing the process, take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly. Pay attention to any unusual noises or behaviors from the braking system.

Conclusion

Bleeding rear drum brakes is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your vehicle's braking performance. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your brake system is free from air and operating as it should. Regular maintenance not only improves safety but also extends the life of your braking components. If you encounter any issues during the bleeding process or feel uncomfortable performing it yourself, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Remember, proper brake function is critical for your safety on the road.