How to Change Drum Brakes

How Do I Change Drum Brakes? A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing drum brakes is an essential skill for any car owner interested in maintaining their vehicle. While it may appear intimidating at first, with the right tools and a systematic approach, you can successfully change your drum brakes at home. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials

1. Tools - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Drum brake tool kit (includes spring tool, pliers, etc.) - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Torque wrench - Safety glasses and gloves

2. Materials - New brake shoes - Brake grease - Replacement springs (if required) - Brake cleaner

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Park your vehicle on a flat surface and turn on your hazard lights. Put on safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from dust and sharp edges. 2. Loosen Lug Nuts Before raising the vehicle, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be changing the drum brakes.

3. Jack Up the Vehicle Use the jack to raise the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

1. Take off the Wheel Once the car is safely elevated, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. Set it aside in a safe place.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Look for any retaining screws and remove them. If the drum is stuck due to rust or debris, tap it lightly with a hammer to loosen it.

2. Take Off the Drum Carefully slide the drum off the wheel hub. If it doesn’t come off easily, check for any hidden retaining springs that might be holding it in place.

Step 4 Replace the Brake Shoes

1. Observe the Setup Before removing the old brake shoes, take a picture or make a note of the configuration for reference.

2. Remove Old Shoes Disconnect the springs and any retaining clips, then carefully remove the old brake shoes. Be mindful of any auto-adjusting mechanisms if your system has them.

3. Install New Shoes Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the backing plate. Then, install the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Secure them with the necessary clips and springs.

Step 5 Reassemble the Drum Brake System

1. Attach the Brake Drum Once the new shoes are in place, slide the brake drum back onto the wheel hub. Ensure it fits snugly and rotates freely.

2. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

Step 6 Lower the Vehicle and Test

1. Lower the Car Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and then use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

2. Test the Brakes Before hitting the road, pump the brakes a few times to ensure they are functioning correctly and that the new shoes are seated properly.

By following these steps, you can change your drum brakes effectively and save money in the process. Regular maintenance will ensure your brakes perform well, keeping you safe on the road. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for specific instructions related to your model. Happy wrenching!