How to Install Drum Brakes

How to Put Drum Brakes on a Vehicle A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are a crucial component of many vehicles, providing reliable stopping power. While disc brakes have become more popular in modern vehicles, many older models still utilize drum brakes, especially in the rear. Understanding how to replace or install drum brakes is a valuable skill for any car enthusiast or DIY mechanic. In this guide, we will take you through the process step-by-step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before beginning, gather the following tools and materials

- New brake shoes - Drum brake hardware kit (springs, clips, etc.) - Brake cleaner - Grease (for lubricating components) - Basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers) - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Torque wrench - Safety glasses and gloves

Preparation

1. Safety First Ensure you are wearing safety glasses and gloves. Working on a vehicle can be dangerous, and protecting yourself is essential.

2. Secure the Vehicle Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks to prevent movement.

3. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear (or front, if it has drum brakes in the front) of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel corresponding to the drum brake you will be working on.

Removing the Old Drum Brakes

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Look for any signs of damage. If the drum is cracked or severely worn, it may need to be replaced.

2. Remove the Drum If the brake drum doesn't slide off easily, a brake drum puller may be needed. Attach the puller and carefully remove the drum.

3. Document the Setup Take a few pictures of the existing brake components before disassembling them. This will serve as a helpful reference when installing the new parts.

4. Remove the Old Brake Shoes Carefully unhook the springs and disconnect any retaining clips. Be cautious, as the springs are under tension.

5. Inspect Other Components Check the condition of the wheel cylinder and any other brake hardware. If the wheel cylinder is leaking or damaged, it should be replaced.

Installing New Drum Brakes

1. Prepare the New Brake Shoes If your new shoes didn’t come with a hardware kit, install the necessary springs and clips according to your reference photos.

2. Attach the New Shoes Position the new brake shoes in place. Make sure they align correctly with the brake hardware and the wheel cylinder.

3. Reconnect the Springs and Clips Reattach the springs and clips that hold the shoes in place. Ensure everything is secure and properly tensioned to avoid any issues when braking.

4. Lubricate Moving Parts Use a high-temperature grease to lubricate pivot points and contact surfaces where necessary. Avoid applying grease to the shoe linings.

Reassemble and Final Steps

1. Reinstall the Brake Drum Slide the drum back onto the assembly. It should fit snugly but rotate freely. If it doesn’t, double-check the positioning of the new shoes and hardware.

2. Reattach the Wheel Once everything is in place, reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure an even fit.

3. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands.

4. Test the Brakes Before taking the vehicle on the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to settle the new shoes. Then, perform a slow test drive to ensure everything functions correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing drum brakes is a manageable job for those willing to invest time and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure your braking system functions effectively, enhancing your vehicle's safety and performance. Remember, if you're ever unsure during the process, consulting a professional mechanic is always a wise choice. Happy wrenching!