how to change rear drum brake pads

How to Change Rear Drum Brake Pads A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing the rear drum brake pads of your vehicle is an essential maintenance task that ensures your brake system operates safely and efficiently. While it may seem daunting at first, with the right tools and guidance, you can complete this task on your own. This article will walk you through the steps necessary to change your rear drum brake pads.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you get started, gather the following tools and materials

1. Jack and jack stands – To lift and secure your vehicle. 2. Lug wrench – For removing the wheel bolts. 3. Brake drum puller – If the drums don’t come off easily. 4. Socket set – For removing various bolts. 5. Brake cleaner – To clean parts. 6. New brake pads – Ensure they are compatible with your vehicle. 7. Spring tool – For removing and replacing springs. 8. C-clamp or brake caliper tool – To compress the brake piston if necessary. 9. Safety glasses and gloves – To protect yourself during the process.

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Park on a Level Surface Ensure your vehicle is on a flat surface to prevent it from rolling. 2. Engage the Parking Brake This will keep the vehicle from moving while you work. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels, but do not completely remove them yet.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Use the Jack Place the jack under the vehicle's jacking points and lift it until the wheels are off the ground. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Once elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle for added safety. 3. Remove the Wheels Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Brake Assembly Check for any obvious signs of wear or damage before proceeding. 2. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum does not easily slide off, you may need to use a brake drum puller. This tool will allow you to apply even pressure and pull the drum off without damage.

1. Take Note of the Configuration Before removing the old brake pads, take a picture or note how they are set up. This will help you correctly install the new ones. 2. Remove Springs and Retainers Use your spring tool to carefully remove the springs and any retainers holding the brake pads in place. 3. Take Out the Brake Shoes Once the springs are removed, you can take out the old brake shoes (pads).

Step 5 Install New Brake Pads

1. Clean the Brake Assembly Use brake cleaner to remove dust and debris from the brake assembly. Ensure everything is clean before installing the new pads. 2. Install the New Brake Shoes Place the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Ensure they are seated properly and securely. 3. Replace Springs and Retainers Reattach the springs and retainers, ensuring they are tight and secure.

Step 6 Reinstall the Brake Drum

1. Check for Proper Fit Before reinstalling the brake drum, ensure that everything is aligned correctly. 2. Slide the Brake Drum Back On Carefully place the brake drum back over the new brake pads. 3. Spin the Drum Make sure the drum spins freely without any obstruction.

Step 7 Reinstall the Wheel

1. Place the Wheel Back On Lift the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. 3. Tighten the Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is on the ground, use your lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tension.

Step 8 Test Your Work

Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to set the new pads. A short test drive (in a safe area) will allow you to ensure everything is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Changing rear drum brake pads can seem like a challenging task, but with the right tools and a step-by-step approach, you can do it yourself. Regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial for safe driving, so checking your brake pads periodically is essential. If at any point you feel uncomfortable completing this task, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Safety should always be your top priority!