how to change drum brakes

How to Change Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing drum brakes can be a daunting task for many car owners, but it is a vital part of vehicle maintenance to ensure safety on the road. Drum brakes are typically found on the rear wheels of many vehicles, and though they are often less complex than disc brakes, the process still requires careful attention to detail. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of changing drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the job, gather the following tools and materials - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Drum brake hardware kit (if necessary) - New brake shoes - Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Torque wrench - Gloves and safety glasses

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and that the wheels are chocked to prevent rolling. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Use the lug wrench to partially loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the drum brakes. Do not completely remove them yet. 3. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to raise the vehicle. Once elevated, place jack stands underneath for safety.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

1. Take Off the Wheel Now fully remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel. Set it aside in a safe location. Step 3 Remove the Drum Brake Assembly

1. Inspect the Drum Look for any retaining screws holding the drum in place. If present, remove them. 2. Remove the Drum If the drum appears stuck due to rust or wear, gently tap it with a hammer to dislodge it. Pull the drum off and inspect the shoes and hardware.

Step 4 Take Photos (Optional)

If you are unfamiliar with how everything is assembled, consider taking photos as you disassemble the parts. This will help you remember the arrangement when you install the new brake shoes.

1. Disconnect Springs Use pliers to remove the springs and hardware holding the brake shoes in place. Be cautious, as these springs can snap back. 2. Remove the Shoes Once the springs are detached, remove the brake shoes from the backing plate and set them aside.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Prepare New Shoes If using a new hardware kit, install the new hold-down springs and any other necessary components as per the manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Attach New Shoes Position the new brake shoes onto the backing plate and secure them in place using the hold-down springs.

Step 7 Reinstall the Drum

1. Check for Misalignment Ensure that the new shoes are aligned correctly and that the drum can fit over them. 2. Reattach the Drum Slide the drum back onto the wheel hub, ensuring it rotates freely.

Step 8 Reinstall the Wheel

1. Mount the Wheel Place the wheel back on the hub, aligning it with the lug bolts. Hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. 3. Tighten the Lug Nuts Once on the ground, use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 9 Test Your Work

Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the brake shoes against the drum. This will help improve braking performance.

Conclusion

Changing drum brakes can save you money and help you understand your vehicle better. While this guide provides a solid foundation for replacing drum brakes, always consult your vehicle repair manual for specific details and procedures. Remember, if you feel uncomfortable at any point in this process, it’s wise to seek professional assistance to ensure safety on the road. Regularly maintaining your brakes is essential for providing you with safe and effective stopping power.