how to do a drum brake job

How to Do a Drum Brake Job

Performing a drum brake job is a vital skill for anyone interested in automotive maintenance. Drum brakes are commonly found on the rear wheels of many vehicles, and replacing or servicing them can save you money on labor costs while ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable. With the right tools and a bit of patience, most car owners can handle a drum brake job. This article will guide you through the steps to successfully complete a drum brake job.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Drum brake spring tool (or a pair of needle-nose pliers) - New brake shoes - Replacement hardware (springs, clips, etc.) - Torque wrench - Screwdriver - Gloves and safety goggles

Step 1 Preparation

1. Safety First Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from brake dust and other debris. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel. Do not remove them completely at this stage.

3. Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the vehicle and support it securely with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

4. Remove the Wheel Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the brake drum.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Drum Before removal, inspect the brake drum for any visible damage or wear. If the drum is excessively worn, it may need to be replaced.

2. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum does not slide off easily, there may be a retaining screw. Remove this screw if necessary. In some cases, you may need to tap the drum gently with a hammer to break it free.

3. Examine Components Once the drum is off, look at the existing brake shoes, springs, and other hardware to note how they are arranged.

Step 3 Replace the Brake Shoes

1. Remove Old Brake Shoes Using your brake spring tool or pliers, carefully remove the springs and clips holding the brake shoes in place. Take your time to avoid damaging the components.

2. Install New Brake Shoes Compare the new shoes to the old ones to ensure they are the same size. Position the new brake shoes in the same arrangement as the old ones, replacing any worn hardware as needed.

3. Attach Springs and Clips Use the brake spring tool to secure the new brake shoes in place with the new springs and clips. Ensure the shoes move freely but are firmly attached.

Step 4 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Check the Drum Inspect the interior of the brake drum and clean it with brake cleaner to remove dust and debris.

2. Reinstall the Drum Place the drum back over the newly installed brake shoes. Ensure it fits snugly and spins freely.

3. Reattach the Wheel Put the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove the jack.

4. Tighten Lug Nuts With the vehicle back on the ground, use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's recommended specifications.

Step 5 Final Checks

1. Pump the Brake Pedal Before driving, press the brake pedal several times to seat the new brake shoes against the drum.

2. Test Drive Take the vehicle for a short test drive at low speeds to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises that could indicate an installation issue.

Conclusion

Performing a drum brake job can be a rewarding experience. With the right tools, a step-by-step approach, and attention to detail, you can enhance your vehicle's braking performance and prolong the life of its components. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for specific guidance and safety information tailored to your make and model. Happy wrenching!