how to change brake drums

How to Change Brake Drums A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing brake drums is an essential skill for any car owner or DIY enthusiast. Not only does it save money on labor costs, but it also gives you a better understanding of your vehicle's brake system. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you change brake drums safely and effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - New brake drums - Brake shoes (if they need replacement) - C-clamp or brake tool - Brake cleaner - Rag or towel - Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Park Safely Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake for added safety. 2. Remove the Wheel Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them completely yet. Next, jack up the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Components

With the wheel removed, visually inspect the brake components, including the brake shoes, springs, and the brake drum itself. If you notice excessive wear on the brake shoes or any damage to the drums, it’s essential to replace them.

1. Remove the Retaining Springs Look for any retaining clips or springs holding the drum in place. Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove these carefully. 2. Pull Off the Drum In many cases, the drum will slide off easily. If it’s stuck, a brake drum puller can help remove it without damaging the components. Be gentle to avoid bending or warping the drum.

Step 4 Replace Brake Shoes (if necessary)

If you're replacing the brake shoes

1. Compress the Brake Cylinder Use a C-clamp or a brake tool to compress the brake cylinder, allowing for easier removal of the shoes. 2. Remove Old Shoes Take off the old brake shoes, noting the arrangement of springs and components. 3. Install New Shoes Position the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Reattach the retaining springs and ensure everything is secured properly.

Step 5 Install New Brake Drums

1. Clean the New Drums Before installation, clean the new brake drums with brake cleaner to remove any protective coating. 2. Position the Drum Slide the new drum onto the wheel hub, ensuring it fits snugly over the brake shoes. 3. Reattach Retaining Springs If your drum requires retaining springs, reattach them as necessary.

Step 6 Reassemble the Wheel

1. Mount the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands. 3. Tighten the Lug Nuts Use a lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 7 Test and Final Checks

Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new brake shoes against the drum. Ensure everything is functioning correctly by taking a short test drive at low speed and applying the brakes gently.

Conclusion

Changing brake drums can seem daunting, but with the right tools and this step-by-step guide, you can tackle the job confidently. Regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial for your vehicle's safety and longevity. Always remember to consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions related to your make and model, and when in doubt, seek professional help. Happy repairing!