how to clean rust off brake drums

How to Clean Rust Off Brake Drums

Rust on brake drums can be a common issue for many vehicle owners, especially in areas where roads are salted in winter or where humidity levels are high. Rust not only affects the aesthetics of your vehicle but can also impact its performance. Cleaning rust from brake drums is essential for maintaining your vehicle's braking efficiency and safety. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively clean rust off brake drums.

Step 1 Gather Your Supplies

To start, you will need some essential supplies

- Safety goggles and gloves - A jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Wire brush or sandpaper (medium and fine grit) - Rust inhibitor or brake cleaner - A rag or cloth - Anti-corrosion spray or paint (optional)

Step 2 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure you wear safety goggles and gloves throughout the process. Rust and debris can create sharp particles that may cause injury. 2. Elevate the Vehicle Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, and then use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Once elevated, securely place the jack stands under the vehicle for safety.

3. Remove the Wheels Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheels to access the brake drums easily.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Drums

Before cleaning, inspect the brake drums for excessive rust or signs of wear. Minor rust can be cleaned, but if you notice deep pitting or structural damage, it might be time for a replacement.

1. Initial Cleaning Use a wire brush or medium-grit sandpaper to scrub away the surface rust. Be sure to focus on particularly rusty areas. If the rust is more stubborn, you can use a rust dissolver solution.

2. Refine the Surface Once the majority of the rust is gone, switch to fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. This will help improve the contact surface for the brake shoes.

3. Wipe Down After sanding, use a rag to wipe the drum clean. This removes any dust or particles created during sanding.

Step 5 Apply Rust Inhibitor

After cleaning, it’s essential to protect the brake drum from future rust. You can apply a rust inhibitor or brake cleaner to the area. A protective spray will help shield the metal from moisture and salt, reducing the likelihood of rust returning.

Step 6 Reassemble and Test

1. Reattach the Wheels Place the wheels back on the vehicle, tightening the lug nuts by hand initially. Once all are in place, lower the vehicle back to the ground and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

2. Testing Before hitting the road, it’s prudent to test the brakes in a safe environment. Make sure that the braking performance is smooth and that there are no unusual noises.

Conclusion

Cleaning rust off brake drums is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your vehicle's performance and longevity. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent rust from becoming a persistent issue. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll ensure that your vehicle is safer and performs at its best. Remember, if you ever feel uncomfortable performing any mechanical work, consulting a professional mechanic is always a wise choice.