how to change drum brakes on a 2008 gmc sierra

How to Change Drum Brakes on a 2008 GMC Sierra

Changing the drum brakes on your 2008 GMC Sierra can seem like a daunting task, but with some patience and the right tools, you can do it yourself and save money on labor costs. In this guide, we will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what needs to be done to safely and effectively replace your drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - Brake cleaner - A drum brake kit (includes new shoes, springs, and any necessary hardware) - A flat-head screwdriver - Pliers - A socket set - A torque wrench

Step 1 Preparation

1. Safety First Park your GMC Sierra on a flat surface, ensuring that the vehicle is in park (or in gear if it's a manual) and the parking brake is engaged. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels before lifting the vehicle. It’s easier to perform this step while the wheel is on the ground.

Step 2 Lifting the Vehicle

1. Jack Up the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear of the truck. Make sure to place the jack stands under the vehicle for support before lowering the jack.

2. Remove the Rear Wheels Once the vehicle is securely supported by the jack stands, finish removing the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheels.

Step 3 Remove the Drum

1. Inspect the Drum Before removing the drum, inspect it for any retaining screws. Some models may have a screw holding the drum in place. 2. Remove the Drum If the drum is stuck, gently tap it with a hammer to free it from the hub. Be careful not to damage the drum.

1. Inspect the Assembly Once the drum is off, take a moment to inspect the components. Look for wear on the brake shoes, springs, and other hardware.

2. Remove Old Brake Shoes Take note of how the existing brake shoes and springs are installed. You can take pictures for reference. Use the pliers and screwdriver to detach the old shoes and springs from the backing plate.

3. Clean the Assembly Before installing the new components, clean the backing plate and drum using brake cleaner. This removes any dust and debris, ensuring optimal performance.

Step 5 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Install New Shoes Begin by attaching the new brake shoes to the backing plate. Use the new springs and hardware provided in your brake kit. Make sure everything is secured properly. 2. Adjust the Shoes Use an adjusting tool to set the shoes correctly, ensuring they fit snugly against the drum without being overly tight.

Step 6 Reinstall the Drum

1. Reattach the Drum Carefully place the drum back over the newly installed shoes. It should slide on smoothly without resistance. 2. Reinstall the Wheels Place the wheels back onto the hub, and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

Step 7 Lower the Vehicle

1. Lower the Truck Use the jack to lift the vehicle slightly, remove the jack stands, and then lower the vehicle back to the ground. 2. Tighten Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is back on the ground, use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

Step 8 Test the Brakes

1. Pump the Brakes Before taking the truck on the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to set the shoes against the drum correctly.

2. Test Drive Take it for a short test drive to ensure everything functions properly. Listen for any unusual sounds and pay attention to the braking performance.

Conclusion

Changing the drum brakes on your 2008 GMC Sierra is an achievable task with the right approach. By following these steps carefully, not only will you save on professional labor costs, but you will also gain a greater understanding of your vehicle's maintenance needs. Remember, if you feel unsure at any step, it’s always wise to consult with or hire a professional mechanic. Safe driving!