how do you change drum brakes

How Do You Change Drum Brakes?

Changing drum brakes may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done effectively. Drum brakes are a crucial part of your vehicle's braking system, so it's important to ensure they are functioning properly. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of changing drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials

1. Jack and Jack Stands To lift the vehicle safely. 2. Lug Wrench For removing the wheel nuts. 3. Brake Spring Tool To remove and install springs. 4. Pliers For various adjustments. 5. Socket Set For removing any bolts that may hold the drum in place. 6. Replacement Brake Shoes Ensure they are the correct size for your vehicle. 7. Brake Cleaner To clean the components. 8. Grease For lubricating certain parts. 9. Safety Gear Gloves and safety glasses.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation Start by parking your vehicle on a flat surface, engaging the parking brake, and placing wheel chocks behind the front wheels (if the rear brakes are being changed) for safety.

2. Remove the Wheel - Use the lug wrench to loosen the wheel nuts slightly before raising the vehicle. - Once elevated, completely remove the wheel nuts and then take off the wheel. This will expose the drum brake assembly.

3. Inspect the Brake Drum - Check the drum for any visible signs of wear or damage. If it looks uneven or excessively worn, it may need to be replaced.

4. Remove the Brake Drum - To remove the drum, inspect for retaining screws, or if it's just a friction fit. In some cases, you might need to tap it gently with a hammer to loosen it. Make sure it's free of rust and grime before attempting to take it off.

5. Remove Old Brake Shoes - Once the drum is removed, use the brake spring tool to take off the return springs and any other springs holding the shoes in place. - Carefully detach the old brake shoes from the backing plate, noting how everything is assembled — this will help in installing the new ones.

6. Clean the Components - Use brake cleaner to remove dust, dirt, and grime from the backing plate and other components. Be sure to clean the drum as well if you are reusing it.

7. Install New Brake Shoes - Position the new brake shoes onto the backing plate the same way the old ones were arranged. Secure them in place by reinstalling the springs you previously removed. It’s important to ensure they are vividly seated correctly.

8. Reinstall the Brake Drum - Once the new shoes are in place, align the drum over them. Make sure it spins freely without any dragging. If it does stick, check if the shoes are properly seated or if there's an adjustment needed.

9. Reattach the Wheel - After confirming that the drum is properly installed, place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the studs.

10. Lower the Vehicle - Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Once it is secure on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts completely in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

11. Test the Brakes - Before you hit the road, pump the brakes a few times to seat the shoes properly against the drum. This will ensure optimal braking performance.

12. Final Inspection - Take a short test drive to gauge how the brakes perform. Pay attention to any unusual noises or behaviors to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Changing your drum brakes is a task that requires careful attention and methodical work, but with the proper tools and knowledge, it can be accomplished in a reasonable amount of time. Regular brake maintenance is vital for your vehicle's safety, so ensure you consult your vehicle’s manual for any specific instructions related to your model. If at any point you feel uncomfortable performing the task yourself, don’t hesitate to contact a professional mechanic.