how to change your drum brakes

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

Changing drum brakes might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps to effectively replace your drum brakes and ensure your vehicle stops safely and efficiently.

What You Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Socket set - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - Drum brake hardware kit (if needed) - Gloves and goggles for safety

Step 1 Preparation

- Safety First Park your car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself during the process. - Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that you will be working on, but do not remove them completely at this point.

Step 2 Raise the Vehicle

- Jack Up the Car Place the jack under the vehicle's jacking point and raise it until the wheel is off the ground. Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure it remains stable during the work. - Remove the Wheel Now that the car is secure, completely remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

- Inspect the Drum Examine the brake drum for any visible signs of damage. If it appears bent or severely worn, you may need a replacement. - Remove the Drum In some cases, the drum may be stuck due to rust or debris. If necessary, use a brake drum puller to detach it from the hub. Once removed, inspect the inside for wear.

- Unclip the Spring Carefully remove any retaining springs holding the shoes in place. Be cautious, as these springs can be under tension. - Detach the Shoes Once the springs are removed, gently pull the old brake shoes away from the backing plate. Take note of their arrangement, as you will need to install the new shoes in a similar manner.

Step 5 Install New Brake Shoes

- Compare New and Old Shoes Before installation, compare the new brake shoes with the old ones to ensure they are the correct size and shape. - Attach the New Shoes Position the new brake shoes into place and secure them with the retaining clips and springs. Make sure they move freely without any binding.

Step 6 Reassemble the Drum and Wheel

- Replace the Brake Drum Once the new shoes are securely in place, slide the brake drum back onto the hub. Ensure that it fits snugly. - Install the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. This will keep the wheel in place while you lower the vehicle.

Step 7 Lower the Vehicle

- Remove the Jack Stands Carefully jack up the vehicle slightly to remove the jack stands. Once they are out, lower the vehicle back to the ground. - Tighten the Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is on the ground, fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 8 Test the Brakes

- Check Brake Function Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal several times to seat the shoes against the drum. This ensures they engage properly. - Take a Test Drive Finally, take your vehicle for a short test drive and listen for any unusual noises. Check to see that the brakes are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Changing drum brakes can save you money and is a rewarding skill to learn. By following these steps, you can maintain your vehicle’s braking system and enhance your safety on the road. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions related to your make and model. If you feel uncomfortable performing this task, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.