drum brakes install

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

Installing drum brakes can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can tackle this project successfully. Drum brakes are a common braking system in many vehicles, especially older models and heavier vehicles. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide to installing drum brakes, ensuring your vehicle's braking system remains reliable and safe.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need

- Drum brake kit (including brake shoes, springs, and hardware) - Brake cleaner - Brake fluid - Wrenches and sockets - Ratchet and extension - Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips) - Hammer - Pliers - A jack and jack stands - Wheel chocks

Step 1 Preparation

Firstly, ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Always use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on but do not remove them yet. Use a jack to lift the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. Once the vehicle is lifted, remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the drum.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

Inspect the drum for any retaining screws. If your drum is secured by these screws, remove them. If the drum is rusted or stuck, you may need to gently tap it with a hammer to dislodge it. Once loose, pull the drum straight off the wheel hub, taking care not to damage any adjoining components.

With the drum removed, inspect the old brake components for wear. Note how the brake shoes and springs are arranged, as you will need to replicate this during reinstallation.

Begin by removing the return springs and the hold-down springs using your pliers. Once these are off, you can remove the brake shoes from the backing plate. Keep track of how everything is assembled—taking pictures can be very helpful for reference.

Step 4 Install New Brake Shoes

Start by positioning the new brake shoes in place. Ensure they align correctly with the wheel cylinder and the backing plate. Attach the new hold-down springs, securing the shoes in place. Make sure they move freely without sticking.

Next, install the new return springs. These springs help keep the brake shoes retracted when the brake pedal is not pressed. Again, ensure they are properly positioned and secured.

Step 5 Reinstall the Drum

Before reinstalling the brake drum, thoroughly clean the inside surface of the drum with brake cleaner to eliminate any dust or oil that could affect braking performance. Once clean, slide the drum back onto the wheel hub. If it doesn’t fit easily, check to ensure the shoes are aligned correctly and adjust if necessary.

Step 6 Reassemble the Wheel

Now it's time to put the wheel back on. Replace the lug nuts and tighten them by hand. Lower the vehicle back to the ground using your jack and remove the jack stands. Once the vehicle is fully back on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 7 Test Your Work

Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the brake shoes against the drum properly. Make sure to check the brake fluid level and top it off if necessary. Take your vehicle for a slow test drive to ensure the brakes function correctly.

Conclusion

Installing drum brakes can be a rewarding project that saves you money on labor costs while ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive. By following these steps carefully and using the right tools, you can successfully replace the drum brakes on your vehicle. Always remember to consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions related to your model. Safe driving!