Steps to Replace Drum Brake Shoes Efficiently and Safely for Your Vehicle

How to Change Drum Brake Shoes

Changing drum brake shoes is an essential skill for any car owner or mechanic. Drum brakes are commonly found on many vehicles, especially on older models or the rear wheels of modern cars. Over time, the brake shoes wear down and can lead to decreased braking performance or even damage to other brake components. In this article, we will discuss the process of changing drum brake shoes step by step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need the following

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake shoe kit (new brake shoes and springs) - Brake cleaner - Screwdriver (flat-head and Phillips) - Pliers - Torque wrench - Drum brake adjustment tool (optional) - Gloves and safety goggles

Step 1 Preparing the Vehicle

1. Park the Vehicle Find a flat, stable surface to work on. Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2. Loosen Lug Nuts Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheels where you need to change the drum brake shoes. Do not remove them completely yet.

3. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground and secure it with jack stands. Make sure the car is stable before proceeding.

4. Remove the Wheel Once the vehicle is lifted and secured, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel to expose the drum brake.

Step 2 Removing the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Check for any visible damage or wear. If the drum is in poor condition, it may need to be replaced.

2. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum is stuck, tap it lightly with a rubber mallet to break it free. Gently pull it off the wheel hub. If the drum does not come off easily, ensure that the brake shoes are not pressed against the drum by adjusting the star wheel.

Step 3 Disassembling the Brake Assembly

1. Examine the Components Take note of how the brake shoes and springs are arranged. It’s a good idea to take a picture for reference.

2. Disconnect the Springs Using pliers or a brake spring tool, carefully remove the springs that hold the brake shoes in place. Be cautious, as these springs can be under tension.

3. Remove the Old Brake Shoes Once the springs are removed, take out the old brake shoes. Note how they are positioned, as this will help during reinstallation.

Step 4 Installing the New Brake Shoes

1. Prepare the New Shoes Compare the new brake shoes with the old ones to ensure they are the correct size. Clean the brake assembly with brake cleaner to remove dust and debris.

2. Install New Brake Shoes Begin by positioning the new brake shoes in the same arrangement as the old ones. Ensure they fit snugly against the backing plate.

3. Reconnect the Springs Replace the springs one by one, securing the brake shoes in place. Make sure the springs are properly seated in their designated holes.

Step 5 Reassembling and Testing

1. Reinstall the Brake Drum Carefully slide the drum back onto the hub. Ensure it rotates freely without dragging against the shoes. Adjust the brake shoes using the star wheel if necessary.

2. Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

3. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

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

5. Test the Brakes Before driving the vehicle, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new shoes against the drum properly. Test the brakes at low speed to ensure they function correctly.

Conclusion

Changing drum brake shoes is a straightforward process that can save you money on service costs while ensuring your vehicle remains safe to drive. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn brake shoes can improve braking efficiency and prolong the life of your braking system. If at any point you feel unsure, consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Always prioritize safety and ensure that you are using the correct tools and following best practices.