Guide to Removing Brake Drum on Club Car Golf Carts

How to Remove Brake Drums on a Club Car

When it comes to maintaining your Club Car golf cart, one of the important tasks that you may need to undertake is the removal of the brake drums. This process is straightforward, but it requires the right tools, a clear workspace, and a bit of patience. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to safely and effectively remove the brake drums from your Club Car.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start the removal process, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench or socket set - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Screwdriver - Brake cleaner - Rags or towels - Safety goggles and gloves

Ensure you have everything ready before you begin to avoid unnecessary interruptions.

Step 1 Safety First

Safety should always be your priority when working on your golf cart. Start by wearing safety goggles and gloves. Park your Club Car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. This will prevent the cart from rolling while you work.

Step 2 Lift the Golf Cart

Using the jack, lift the rear of the golf cart off the ground. Once elevated, support the vehicle with jack stands. This step is crucial; never rely solely on the jack to hold up the cart while you work underneath it.

With the cart securely elevated, you will need to remove the rear wheels to access the brake drums. Use a lug wrench or socket set to loosen and remove the lug nuts. After the nuts are off, carefully slide the wheels off the hubs and set them aside.

Step 4 Inspect the Brake Setup

Once the wheels are removed, you will see the brake drums. Before proceeding with their removal, take a moment to inspect the condition of your brake system. Look for any signs of wear or damage to the brake shoes, springs, and other components.

Step 5 Remove the Brake Drums

Now it's time to remove the brake drums. In most cases, the drum will simply slide off the hub. However, if you encounter resistance, this could mean that the brake shoes are hanging onto the drums. Here’s how to proceed

1. Loosen the Adjuster Locate the brake adjuster wheel, which is typically located behind a small access hole on the back of the drum. Use a screwdriver to turn the adjuster counterclockwise, which will retract the shoes and allow the drum to come off more easily.

2. Pull the Drum Off After adjusting, attempt to pull the drum straight off the hub. If it still won’t budge, you may need a brake drum puller. Position the puller on the drum, tightening its screws to carefully ease the drum off without damaging it.

3. Inspect the Drum After removing the drum, check its interior for scoring or wear. If you find significant damage, you may need to replace the drum. Always take the opportunity to clean the interior with brake cleaner and a rag to remove dust and debris.

Step 6 Reinstallation

Once you have completed your inspection or any necessary repairs, you can reinstall the brake drums. Simply slide them back onto the hub and make sure they sit flush against the backing plate. Remember to adjust the brake shoes as necessary to ensure a proper fit.

Step 7 Reattach the Wheels

After reattaching the brake drums, place the rear wheels back on the hubs. Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure across the wheel. Lower the golf cart back to the ground and remove the jack stands.

Conclusion

Removing the brake drums on your Club Car is a manageable task with the right tools and approach. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can maintain your brake system, ensuring the safety and performance of your golf cart. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your golf cart but will also enhance your overall driving experience. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and torque specifications related to your model. Happy driving!