how to replace wheel cylinder on drum brakes

How to Replace a Wheel Cylinder on Drum Brakes

Replacing a wheel cylinder on drum brakes is an essential skill for anyone looking to maintain their vehicle. Wheel cylinders play a critical role in the braking system; they facilitate the movement of brake shoes against the drum to create friction. Over time, wheel cylinders can wear out or develop leaks, leading to decreased braking performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace the wheel cylinder on your drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials - New wheel cylinder - Brake fluid - Brake cleaner - Wrenches and sockets - A brake line wrench - Screwdrivers - Pliers - Torque wrench - Jack and jack stands - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Preparation

Start by preparing your workspace. Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Put on your safety goggles and gloves.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

Using a tire iron or an impact wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on. Then, use a jack to lift the vehicle, and secure it with jack stands. Once the vehicle is safely elevated, remove the lug nuts and the wheel.

Step 3 Access the Brake Assembly

With the wheel removed, locate the drum brake assembly. If the drums are held in place by retaining screws, remove these screws to gain access. Carefully pull off the brake drum. If it’s stuck, you may need to lightly tap it with a hammer to loosen it.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Shoes

Before you can access the wheel cylinder, the brake shoes need to be removed. Carefully disconnect the return springs and any other attached hardware using pliers and screwdrivers. Make a note of how everything is oriented, or take photos for reference during reassembly.

Step 5 Remove the Old Wheel Cylinder

With the brake shoes out of the way, locate the wheel cylinder mounted to the backing plate. Use a brake line wrench to carefully loosen and remove the brake lines connected to the wheel cylinder. Be ready to catch any brake fluid that may leak out. Once the lines are detached, use the appropriate socket to remove the mounting bolts and take out the old wheel cylinder.

Step 6 Install the New Wheel Cylinder

Before installing the new wheel cylinder, ensure that the mounting surface is clean and free of any debris. Position the new wheel cylinder in place and secure it with the mounting bolts. Reattach the brake lines, ensuring that they are tight and leak-free.

Step 7 Reassemble the Brake Components

Reinstall the brake shoes, reconnect the springs, and ensure everything is oriented as it was initially. Once complete, slide the brake drum back onto the axle.

Step 8 Test the Brakes

Before reinstalling the wheel, it’s crucial to test the brakes. Pump the brake pedal several times to restore pressure and push the brake shoes against the drum. Check for any leaks around the new wheel cylinder.

Finally, reinstall the wheel, tightening the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands, and perform a final check of the brake system by taking the vehicle for a short test drive.

Conclusion

Replacing the wheel cylinder on drum brakes can save you time and money while ensuring your vehicle remains safe to drive. By following this detailed guide, you’ll not only learn how to replace the wheel cylinder correctly but also gain confidence in performing future brake maintenance tasks. Always remember to prioritize safety and consult a professional if you encounter any difficulties during the process.