Steps to Replace Rear Drum Brakes on Your Vehicle Effectively and Safely

How to Change Rear Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing rear drum brakes can seem daunting if you've never done it before, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can tackle this maintenance task yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully change your rear drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before getting started, gather the following tools and materials - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - C-clamp or brake caliper tool - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - Brake hardware kit (if needed) - Torque wrench - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Park Safely Find a flat and stable surface to work on. Turn on your hazard lights. 2. Loosen Lug Nuts Before lifting the vehicle, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel. Do not completely remove them yet; just break the initial resistance. 3. Lift the Vehicle Use your jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. Ensure that the vehicle is stable before you proceed.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

1. Remove Lug Nuts Now that the vehicle is secure, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. Set the wheel aside in a safe location.

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Before removing the drum, inspect it for any retaining screws. If there are screws, remove them. If the drum seems stuck, you may need a brake drum puller to remove it safely. 2. Remove the Brake Drum Gently pull the drum off the wheel hub. If it is stuck, tap gently around the edges with a hammer to loosen it.

Step 4 Inspect and Clean

1. Inspect Brake Components Take this opportunity to inspect the condition of the brake shoes, springs, and other components. Look for wear, cracks, or damage. 2. Clean the Area Use brake cleaner and a clean cloth to remove dust and debris from the brake assembly.

Step 5 Remove Old Brake Shoes

1. Remove Retaining Springs Using pliers or a brake tool, carefully remove the retaining springs holding the brake shoes in place. 2. Take Out Brake Shoes Once the springs are removed, carefully take out the old brake shoes. 3. Keep Hardware If your new brake shoes do not come with a new hardware kit, retain the old hardware for reuse.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Position New Brake Shoes Place the new brake shoes into the drum assembly, ensuring they fit snugly against the backing plate. 2. Reattach Springs Use the retaining springs to secure the new brake shoes. Make sure everything is properly aligned and seated.

Step 7 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Reinstall Brake Drum Carefully place the brake drum back over the newly installed brake shoes. Ensure it spins freely without wobbling. 2. Torque Specifications If your drum has any retaining screws, reinstall them and tighten according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 8 Reattach the Wheel

1. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. 3. Torque Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is on the ground, use a torque wrench to properly tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

After installing the new rear drum brakes, it’s essential to pump the brake pedal a few times before driving. This action adjusts the brake shoes against the drum. Finally, take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Changing rear drum brakes is a manageable task for any DIY mechanic. By following these steps and taking your time, you can successfully replace your rear drum brakes and enhance your vehicle's safety and performance. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific details and safety reminders related to your particular model. Happy repairing!