Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Drum Brakes on a 2008 GMC Sierra

How to Change Drum Brakes on a 2008 GMC Sierra

Changing the drum brakes on a 2008 GMC Sierra may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can achieve this maintenance task efficiently. Drum brakes are less common on modern vehicles but are often found on older trucks or as rear brakes. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully replace your drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

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

1. Jack and jack stands – for lifting the vehicle safely. 2. Lug wrench – to remove the wheel. 3. Brake drum puller – if the drum is difficult to remove. 4. Screwdriver – for removing pins and retainer clips. 5. Torque wrench – for reinstalling bolts to the correct torque. 6. New brake shoes – ensure they are the correct size for your GMC Sierra. 7. Brake cleaner – to clean the components. 8. Grease – for lubricating moving parts. 9. Safety glasses and gloves – to protect yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation Park your GMC Sierra on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety gear. Make sure you have a clear workspace and access to your tools.

2. Lifting the Vehicle Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground. Use the lug wrench to do this. Then, use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands to ensure it is stable.

3. Removing the Wheel After securing the vehicle, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheel to expose the brake drum.

4. Inspecting the Drum Before proceeding with the brake shoe replacement, inspect the brake drum for wear and damage. If it’s severely worn or scored, you may need to replace or resurface it.

5. Removing the Drum If the drum doesn’t come off easily, use a brake drum puller to help loosen it. Some drums may have retaining screws that need to be removed first.

6. Taking Off the Old Brake Shoes - Once the drum is removed, you'll see the brake assembly. Take note of how everything is put together; you can photograph it for reference during reassembly. - Remove the springs and clips that hold the brake shoes in place using the screwdriver. Be cautious as the springs can be under tension.

7. Installing New Brake Shoes - Compare the new brake shoes with the old ones to ensure they are the correct size. - Install the new shoes by reversing the removal process first, attach the primary shoe (the one with the shorter lining) and then the secondary shoe. Ensure the shoes are aligned correctly.

8. Reattaching Springs and Clips - Reinstall the springs and clips to secure the shoes in place. Be sure everything is tight but be careful not to stretch the springs too much.

9. Cleaning and Reinstalling the Drum - Before reinstalling the drum, use brake cleaner to clean the inside of the drum and the outside of the brake shoes to remove any dust and grease. - Place the drum back over the brake shoes and ensure it spins freely without catching. If it catches, you may need to adjust the brake shoes.

10. Reinstalling the Wheel Once you’re satisfied that everything is working correctly, put the wheel back on. Hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle back to the ground.

11. Lowering the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with the jack.

12. Final Steps - Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern using a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications. - Pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new shoes properly before taking the vehicle for a test drive.

Conclusion

Changing the drum brakes on your 2008 GMC Sierra is a manageable task that can save you money in labor costs. By following these steps, you can ensure your braking system operates smoothly and efficiently. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. If you feel uncertain at any point during the process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Safe driving!