drum brake change

Understanding Drum Brake Change A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a critical component of many vehicles, particularly older models and certain modern vehicles, especially those in the rear axles. Understanding how to change them can save car owners a significant amount of money in repair costs and ensure their vehicles operate safely. This article will walk you through the process of changing drum brakes, the tools needed, signs of wear, and tips for maintenance.

Signs Your Drum Brakes Need Changing

Before diving into the replacement process, it’s essential to recognize the signs that indicate your drum brakes may need changing. Some common symptoms include - Squeaking or Scraping Noises If you hear unusual noises when you apply the brakes, it could mean that the brake shoes are worn down and need replacing. - Reduced Braking Power If your vehicle takes longer to stop or feels less responsive when you depress the brake pedal, it’s time to inspect the drum brakes. - Vibration A noticeable vibration in the brake pedal when braking can indicate an issue with the drums or the shoes themselves. - Visual Inspection If you can access the drums, a visual inspection can reveal cracks or an excessive buildup of dust, which indicates wear.

Tools You Will Need

Changing drum brakes requires some basic tools. Ensure you have the following on hand - Jack and Jack Stands To safely lift the vehicle. - Lug Wrench To remove the wheel. - Drum Brake Kit This typically includes new shoes, springs, and other necessary components. - Brake Cleaner To clean the components and remove excess dust. - Socket Set For any bolts that may need to be removed. - C-Clamp or Brake Tool To compress the brake shoes when reassembling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Drum Brakes

1. Prepare the Vehicle Park the car on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel. 2. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to elevate the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.

3. Remove the Drum If the drum doesn’t come off easily, you may need to remove the retaining screws or use a mallet to tap it loose gently.

4. Inspect and Remove Old Components Inspect the brake shoes, springs, and the drum for wear. Take a picture for reference, then carefully remove the old brake shoes and springs.

5. Prepare the New Shoes Before installation, clean the drum with brake cleaner. Check the new shoes against the old ones to ensure a proper fit.

6. Install New Shoes Attach the new brake shoes using the springs. Make sure they are aligned properly and fit snugly into place.

7. Reassemble the Drum Place the drum back over the new shoes. Ensure it rotates freely without binding.

8. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on, tighten the lug nuts by hand, and then lower the vehicle to the ground before fully tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.

9. Test the Brakes Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the shoes against the drum. Test the brakes at low speed to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Changing drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a task that many vehicle owners can tackle themselves. Regular maintenance of your braking system is crucial for vehicle safety and performance. By staying vigilant about signs of wear and performing timely brake changes, you can ensure a smooth and safe driving experience for years to come. Always remember, if you feel uncertain about any step in the process, consulting a professional mechanic is a safe and sound option.