cleaning rear drum brakes

A Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning Rear Drum Brakes

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is crucial for safety and performance, and one essential component of this system is the rear drum brakes. Unlike disc brakes, which are typically found on the front of most vehicles, drum brakes operate using a different mechanism and require specific care to ensure they function correctly. Cleaning rear drum brakes not only enhances braking performance but also extends the life of your vehicle's braking system. This article will guide you through the steps to effectively clean your rear drum brakes.

Understanding Rear Drum Brakes

Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to understand how drum brakes work. Rear drum brakes consist of a brake drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and various springs and hardware. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid forces the wheel cylinder to push the brake shoes against the inside of the drum. This friction slows down or stops the vehicle. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the drum and on the brake components, leading to reduced braking performance and potential wear.

Tools and Materials Needed

To clean your rear drum brakes effectively, you will need the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner (aerosol) - Wire brush or cleaning brush - Flathead screwdriver - Protective gloves and goggles - Sandpaper (if necessary) - New brake shoes (if replacement is needed) - Brake grease (for reinstallation)

1. Prepare Your Vehicle Start by parking your vehicle on a flat surface and engaging the parking brake. Place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent any movement.

2. Raise the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Once it's elevated, secure it with jack stands to prevent any accidents. Remove the rear wheels using a lug wrench.

3. Remove the Brake Drum Take a look at the rear brakes. Depending on the vehicle model, you may need to remove retaining screws or use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the drum gently. Sometimes, the drum can be stuck due to rust, so a light tap with a hammer can help dislodge it.

4. Inspect the Components Once the drum is removed, inspect the brake shoes, springs, and wheel cylinder for wear and tear. Look for any signs of cracking, fraying, or damage. If the brake shoes are worn down to a certain thickness, consider replacing them.

5. Clean the Brake Drum Use a wire brush to scrub the inside of the drum, removing dust and grime. Avoid using abrasives that could damage the surface. Then, apply brake cleaner to the drum and wipe it down with a clean cloth or paper towel. This step will help eliminate any residual dust and grease.

6. Clean the Brake Shoes Wipe down the brake shoes with a clean cloth. If there is heavy buildup or contamination, you might have to replace them. If they seem salvageable, use sandpaper to lightly scuff the surface, removing any oil or debris.

7. Check the Wheel Cylinder Inspect the wheel cylinder for leaks or signs of fluid contamination. If the cylinder is leaking brake fluid, it needs to be replaced. Ensure that the cylinder is also clean; wipe away any residue using brake cleaner.

8. Reassemble the Brakes Once everything is clean, reassemble the brake components. Apply a small amount of brake grease to the contact points of the brake shoes to ensure smooth operation.

9. Reinstall the Brake Drum Place the drum back onto the hub and secure it with any retaining screws you removed earlier.

10. Reattach the Wheel Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once the vehicle is back on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the nuts securely.

11. Test the Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper contact between the shoes and drum. This step is vital for re-establishing brake pressure.

Conclusion

Cleaning rear drum brakes is a straightforward yet essential maintenance task that every vehicle owner should consider. Regular maintenance not only ensures a more reliable braking system but also enhances safety on the road. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your rear drum brakes in excellent condition, preventing issues and extending the lifespan of your vehicle's braking system. If you're unsure or uncomfortable performing this task yourself, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Your safety is paramount, and well-functioning brakes are a critical part of that.