how to change drum brakes on a truck

How to Change Drum Brakes on a Truck

Changing the drum brakes on your truck can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it's an achievable DIY project. This guide will help you navigate the essential steps to effectively change your truck's drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before diving into the process, gather the necessary tools and materials

- Tools - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - Socket set - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Spring tool (optional) - Torque wrench

- Materials - New brake shoes - New brake hardware kit (springs, pins, etc.) - Brake grease - Safety goggles - Gloves

Step 1 Preparation

Start by ensuring you have all your tools ready. Park your truck on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If you have wheel chocks, place them behind the front wheels to prevent any movement.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts slightly before you lift the truck. Once the lug nuts are loose, use the jack to lift the vehicle. Secure the truck with jack stands to ensure stability. After that, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the tire to expose the brake drum.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Drum

Before proceeding, inspect the brake drum for excessive wear or damage. If the brake drum is scored or worn beyond tolerance, consider replacing it. You can measure the inner diameter of the drum to check if it's within specifications.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum

If the drum doesn't come off easily, you may need to use a brake drum puller. This tool applies even pressure around the drum, causing it to detach from the hub. Once removed, inspect the drum and the brake components for wear.

Step 5 Remove the Old Brake Shoes

Now, it's time to remove the old brake shoes. Start by breaking any rust or debris holding the shoes in place. Use your pliers and screwdrivers as necessary to disconnect the springs, clips, and any other attachment mechanisms.

Take careful note of how the old brake shoes are arranged, including the position of the springs and any other hardware. It can be helpful to take pictures to serve as a reference when installing the new components.

Step 6 Clean the Components

Before installing the new brake shoes, clean the entire assembly with brake cleaner. This step is crucial to remove dust and debris that could impede the performance of your new brakes. Allow everything to dry completely before moving on.

Step 7 Install New Brake Shoes

Following your reference photos, install the new brake shoes and reconnect the springs and hardware as they were originally positioned. Ensure that all components are securely attached; loose hardware can lead to brake failure.

If you purchased a new hardware kit, now is the time to install it. This typically includes new springs and clips that can help maintain the performance of your brakes. Use brake grease on the backing plate and any contact points to reduce friction.

Step 8 Reinstall the Brake Drum

Once the new brake shoes are installed, carefully place the brake drum back onto the assembly. It should fit snugly over the new shoes. Sometimes a gentle tap with a rubber mallet can help, but be careful not to damage the drum.

Step 9 Reattach the Wheel

Put the wheel back in place and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the truck back to the ground and then use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 10 Test Drive

Finally, before taking your truck on the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. This step is vital to set the brake shoes in their proper position. After that, take a short test drive to ensure that the brakes are working effectively.

Conclusion

Changing the drum brakes on a truck may seem challenging at first, but it can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment once completed. Regular maintenance and timely brake replacement are crucial for your safety on the road. Remember that if you feel uncertain at any point, it’s wise to consult a professional mechanic. Happy wrenching!