how to install rear drum brakes

How to Install Rear Drum Brakes

Installing rear drum brakes can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of preparation, you can accomplish the task yourself. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring your vehicle's braking system is functioning optimally and providing the safety you require on the road.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials

1. New brake shoes 2. Brake drum (if replacement is needed) 3. Brake cleaner 4. Mechanic's gloves 5. A jack and jack stands 6. Lug wrench 7. C-clamp or brake spring tool 8. Flathead screwdriver 9. Torque wrench 10. Safety goggles

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Safety First Ensure you're wearing safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself during the process. Make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, and engage the parking brake.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly. Then, using the jack, lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheels completely to access the drum brakes.

3. Remove the Brake Drum Inspect the brake drum for any screws or clips securing it in place. If it has these, remove them. Tap the drum gently with a hammer if it seems stuck due to rust. Pull the drum off to expose the brake assembly.

4. Inspect the Components Before removing any parts, take note of how everything is assembled. You can take pictures for reference. Inspect the brake shoes, springs, and cylinder for wear or damage.

5. Remove Old Brake Shoes Using a C-clamp or brake spring tool, compress the return springs and unhook them from the brake shoes. Carefully detach the shoes from the wheel cylinder by removing any retaining clips or pins. Be cautious, as the shoes may still be under tension.

6. Install New Brake Shoes Begin the installation with the new brake shoes. Place them in the same position as the old ones, making sure the alignment is correct. Reattach the retaining clips or pins as needed. Reinstall the return springs, ensuring they are securely hooked.

7. Reattach the Brake Drum Once the new shoes are installed, reattach the brake drum. It should slide on smoothly over the shoes. If it doesn’t, check to make sure everything is correctly aligned and not obstructing the drum.

8. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground and use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

9. Repeat on the Other Side It’s generally advisable to change brake shoes on both sides simultaneously for balanced performance. Repeat the above steps on the opposite wheel.

10. Test the Brakes Before driving your vehicle, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure proper seating of the shoes against the drum. Test drive at low speeds to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Installing rear drum brakes requires careful attention to detail and safety. By following these steps and ensuring you have the right tools, you can successfully complete the job yourself. Remember, if you encounter any issues or uncertainties, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Your brakes are critical for your safety on the road, so it’s essential that they are installed correctly. Happy driving!