how do you replace rear drum brakes

How to Replace Rear Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Replacing rear drum brakes is an essential maintenance task that every vehicle owner should know how to perform. While it may seem daunting at first, with the right tools and guidance, you can complete this task at home, saving money on labor costs in the process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to replace your rear drum brakes effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the process, gather the necessary tools and materials

- New drum brakes (shoes) - Brake drums (if necessary) - Brake cleaner - Wrench set - Socket set - Screwdriver - Drum brake spring tool - C-clamps or a brake tool - Safety goggles - Gloves - Jack and jack stands

Safety First

Before you begin, ensure you are wearing safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from debris and chemicals. Make sure your vehicle is on a flat surface and engage the parking brake to prevent rolling.

Step 1 Remove the Wheel

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before lifting the vehicle, use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel of the brake you’ll be working on. Don’t remove them completely yet. 2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle, then secure it with jack stands for safety. 3. Remove the Wheel Finish removing the loosened lug nuts and take the wheel off.

Step 2 Inspect the Drum

1. Check Condition Examine the brake drum for any visible defects, such as cracks or significant wear. If the drum is damaged, you will need to replace it. 2. Remove the Drum If the drum doesn’t slide off easily, it may be retaining rust or there may be a retaining screw. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw if present, then tap it gently with a hammer while pulling outward to break any rust around the drum.

Step 3 Remove the Old Brake Shoes

1. Inspect the Current Setup Before disassembling anything, take a picture of the current setup of the brake shoes and springs. This will serve as a guide when installing the new components.

2. Detach the Springs and Shoes Using a brake spring tool, carefully remove the return springs and any hold-down springs. Pay attention to how they are positioned.

3. Remove the Shoes After detaching the springs, pull the shoes away from the backing plate. Note the arrangement of the parts, as this will be critical during reassembly.

1. Prepare New Shoes Compare the new brake shoes with the old ones to ensure they match.

2. Attach the New Shoes Begin by positioning the new shoes on the backing plate, aligning them correctly. Reattach the hold-down springs and ensure they are secure.

3. Reconnect the Springs Using your brake spring tool, carefully install the return springs, ensuring they are positioned exactly as they were in the old setup, as per your photos.

Step 5 Reinstall the Drum

1. Check the Drum Surface Before reinstalling, ensure the inside of the drum is clean. Spray some brake cleaner to remove any dust or contaminants.

2. Slide the Drum Over the Shoes Gently slide the drum back over the newly installed brake shoes. It should fit snugly but should still turn freely. If it doesn’t fit, ensure the shoes are not too tight or adjusted incorrectly.

Step 6 Reattach the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On Align the wheel with the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.

3. Tighten the Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is firmly on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 7 Test Drive

Before taking a full drive, test the brakes at low speeds. Listen for any unusual noises and check the brake performance.

Conclusion

Replacing rear drum brakes can seem overwhelming, but by following these steps, you can complete the job safely and efficiently. Regular brake maintenance is essential for your vehicle's safety, so make it a priority to check and replace your brakes as needed. If at any point you feel uncertain about the process, consulting a professional mechanic is always a wise decision.