how to do rear drum brakes

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

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is essential for safety and performance, and one crucial component that often needs attention is the rear drum brakes. While disc brakes are becoming more common, many vehicles still utilize rear drum brakes, particularly trucks and some older models. If you're looking to perform maintenance or replace the rear drum brakes on your vehicle, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Drum brake hardware kit (if needed) - Replacement brake shoes - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Brake grease - Torque wrench - Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park on a Flat Surface Ensure your vehicle is on a flat, stable surface to prevent rolling. 2. Engage the Parking Brake This will add an extra layer of safety while you work. 3. Loosen Lug Nuts Before raising the vehicle, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels. Do not remove them completely.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Use the Jack Position the jack under the vehicle’s lifting points and raise it until the rear wheels are off the ground. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Place jack stands under the vehicle to provide a stable support structure.

Step 3 Remove the Rear Wheels

1. Remove Lug Nuts Now that the vehicle is secure, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels. 2. Set Aside the Wheels Keep the wheels in a safe place to prevent any damage.

Step 4 Inspect the Drum Brake Assembly

1. Remove the Brake Drum Locate the brake drum cover and remove any screws holding it in place. Carefully pull the drum off the hub. If it’s stuck, you may need to tap it gently with a hammer to loosen it. 2. Inspect the Components Check the brake shoes, springs, and hardware for wear or damage. If they appear worn down, it’s time for a replacement.

Step 5 Remove Old Brake Shoes

1. Disconnect Springs and Retaining Clips Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully remove the retaining clips and springs that hold the brake shoes in place. Be cautious, as these springs can snap back. 2. Remove the Old Brake Shoes Once everything is disconnected, remove the old brake shoes from their position.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes

1. Prepare New Shoes Take your new brake shoes and apply a thin layer of brake grease to the contact points to prevent noise and ensure smooth operation. 2. Position the New Shoes Place the new shoes into the drum brake assembly, ensuring that they fit snugly. 3. Reconnect Springs and Clips Attach the retaining clips and springs in the reverse order of removal. Make sure everything is secured properly.

Step 7 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Reattach the Brake Drum Carefully slide the drum over the newly installed brake shoes. Ensure that it fits properly and spins freely. 2. Secure Any Screws If your drum was held in place with screws, reinsert and tighten them.

Step 8 Reinstall Wheels and Lower the Vehicle

1. Reattach Wheels Put the rear wheels back onto the wheel hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Using the jack, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands. 3. Tighten Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 9 Test the Brakes

1. Check Brake Functionality Before taking your vehicle on the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure that the brake system is functioning properly. Check for any unusual noises or issues. 2. Take a Test Drive A short test drive will help confirm everything is working smoothly.

Conclusion

Performing maintenance on your rear drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a manageable DIY project. Regular checks and timely replacements will ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions related to your make and model. If you’re ever in doubt about the process, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Your safety is worth it!