Steps to Replace Drum Brake Shoes on Your Vehicle

How to Change Drum Brake Shoes A Step-By-Step Guide

Changing drum brake shoes is an essential skill for anyone looking to maintain their own vehicle. Drum brakes are commonly found in older cars and on the rear wheels of many modern vehicles. Regular maintenance of your braking system is crucial for safety and performance. This guide will walk you through the steps to change drum brake shoes effectively and safely.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials - New brake shoes - Drum brake hardware kit (springs, retainers, etc.) - Brake cleaner - C-clamp or brake tool - Ratchet and socket set - Torque wrench - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Safety goggles - Jack and jack stands - Wheel chocks

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area and are wearing safety goggles. 2. Lift the Vehicle Start by parking the vehicle on a flat and stable surface. Apply the parking brake and place wheel chocks around the front wheels. Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. 3. Remove the Wheel Use the ratchet and socket to remove the lug nuts, and take off the rear wheel to gain access to the drum brake assembly.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Drum Check if the brake drum is secured with screws or clips. If so, remove them before proceeding. 2. Remove the Drum If the drum doesn’t come off easily, tap it lightly with a hammer to loosen any rust or debris. Be cautious not to damage the drum.

1. Examine the Setup Take a moment to observe how the old brake shoes are mounted. A good option is to take a picture for reference during reassembly. 2. Remove the Springs Use pliers to unhook the return springs and any other retaining springs. Be careful—these springs can fly off unexpectedly. 3. Take Out the Brake Shoes Once the springs are removed, you can take out the old brake shoes from the backing plate. Make sure to note how they are positioned.

Step 4 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Prep the New Shoes Compare the old shoes with the new ones to ensure they are the correct size and type. 2. Attach the New Shoes Place the new brake shoes into position on the backing plate. Attach the shoes to the adjustment arm and install the new retaining springs from the hardware kit. 3. Reconnect the Springs Carefully reconnect all springs and ensure they are seated properly.

Step 5 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Reinstall the Drum Once the new shoes are in place, slide the brake drum back onto the hub. If the drum doesn't fit, you may need to adjust the brake shoes using the adjuster screw. 2. Secure the Drum Replace any screws or clips that were holding the drum in place.

Step 6 Reattach the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On Position the wheel back onto the wheel hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle. 2. Torque the Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is back on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 7 Final Check

1. Test the Brakes Before driving, press the brake pedal several times to ensure that the shoes seat properly against the drum. This helps to establish normal brake pressure. 2. Check for Issues Inspect around the wheel for any leaks or abnormalities, ensuring everything is in order.

Conclusion

Changing drum brake shoes may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools, materials, and guidance, it’s a manageable task that can save you time and money. Regular maintenance of your braking system not only prolongs the life of your vehicle but also enhances safety while driving. Should you encounter any unexpected issues beyond the scope of this guide, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Happy driving!