how to disassemble drum brakes

How to Disassemble Drum Brakes

Drum brakes are a common type of braking system found in many vehicles, especially older models and some modern vehicles for their rear brakes. While they may not be as prevalent as disc brakes in today's vehicles, understanding how to disassemble them can be beneficial for maintenance or repair work. If you're looking to perform this task yourself, follow this step-by-step guide to safely disassemble drum brakes.

Tools and Safety Precautions

Before starting the disassembly, make sure you have the following tools on hand - A jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - A brake drum removal tool (if necessary) - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Gloves and safety goggles

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park on a Level Surface Always ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where the drum brakes are located. Do not remove them completely yet.

3. Elevate the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. This step is essential for your safety.

4. Remove the Wheel Now, remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take the wheel off to expose the drum brake assembly.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect for Retaining Screws Some brake drums have retaining screws. If your drum has these, remove them with a screwdriver.

2. Check for Rust or Grime If the drum appears stuck due to rust or dirt, a penetrating oil can help. Spray the edges and let it sit for a few minutes.

3. Remove the Drum Gently pull the drum towards you. If it is still stuck, you may need to tap it lightly with a hammer or use a brake drum puller tool to detach it from the wheel hub.

Step 3 Examine the Components

1. Inspect the Brake Shoes With the drum removed, you will see the brake shoes and the wheel cylinder. Inspect for wear or damage, as you may need to replace them.

2. Loosen the Adjuster Before removing the brake shoes, you should adjust the brake adjuster to its lowest position. Look for a star wheel adjuster and turn it to release tension.

Step 4 Disassemble the Brake Assembly

1. Remove the Return Springs Use pliers to carefully remove the return springs on either side of the brake shoes. Be cautious, as these springs can snap back.

2. Detach the Brake Shoes With the springs removed, you can now detach the brake shoes from the anchor point. Carefully pull the shoes away from the wheel cylinder.

3. Disconnect the Wheel Cylinder If you plan to replace or inspect the wheel cylinder, remove the hydraulic lines connected to it. Be prepared for some brake fluid to leak out, so have a container ready.

Step 5 Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Clean Components Use brake cleaner to clean the drum, shoes, and other components. This is a crucial step, as dirt can affect the performance and safety of your brakes.

2. Check for Damage Inspect all the disassembled components for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Replace any damaged parts as necessary.

Step 6 Reassemble the Brake System

Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. Ensure that all components are correctly placed and that springs are securely fastened. When reinstalling the drum, make sure it spins freely.

Final Tips

- Consult the Manual Always check your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions related to your make and model. - Use Proper Tools Using the right tools will make the job easier and help prevent damage to components. - Safety First If you feel uncertain about any step in the process, it is always best to consult a professional mechanic.

By following these steps, you can successfully disassemble drum brakes and perform necessary maintenance or repairs. Proper brake maintenance is crucial for vehicle safety, so ensure that everything is correctly reassembled and that your brake system functions efficiently.