how to install rear drum brakes

How to Install Rear Drum Brakes

Installing rear drum brakes might seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a manageable DIY project. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to successfully install rear drum brakes on your vehicle. Always remember that working on brake systems requires attention to detail and safety precautions.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Drum brake kit (including shoes, springs, and hardware) - Brake cleaner - Torque wrench - Screwdriver (flat and Phillips) - Pliers - Measuring tool (like a ruler or caliper) - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and wear safety goggles and gloves. 2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

3. Remove the Wheels Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts. Take off the wheel to access the drum brakes.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect the Drum Check for any visible damage or warping. If the drum is in poor condition, consider replacing it.

2. Remove the Drum If the drum doesn’t come off easily, there may be a retaining screw or some rust. Use a screwdriver, if necessary, to remove any screws and tap the drum gently with a hammer to dislodge it.

Step 3 Take Out the Old Brake Shoes

1. Inspect Components Take note of how the existing brake shoes, springs, and hardware are installed. It can be helpful to take photos for reference.

2. Remove Springs and Clips Use pliers and a screwdriver to carefully remove the springs and clips that hold the brake shoes in place.

3. Take Off the Brake Shoes Once the hardware is removed, take out the old brake shoes.

1. Prepare the New Shoes Lay out the new brake shoes and identify which shoe goes where (usually, there's a primary and a secondary shoe).

2. Install the Shoes Attach the new brake shoes to the backing plate, aligning them according to the factory setup you observed earlier. Make sure the adjuster is positioned correctly.

3. Reconnect Springs and Hardware Follow your reference photos to reconnect the retaining springs and hardware. This step is crucial for proper brake function.

Step 5 Reattach the Brake Drum

1. Clean the Drum Before reinstalling the drum, clean it thoroughly with brake cleaner to remove any dust or grease.

2. Install the Drum Slide the brake drum back onto the hub. Ensure it fits snugly and rotates freely without obstruction.

Step 6 Reinstall the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On Set the wheel back in place and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower your vehicle back to the ground.

3. Tighten the Lug Nuts With the vehicle on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

Step 7 Test the Brakes

1. Check Functionality Before driving the vehicle, pump the brake pedal several times to seat the new brake shoes against the drum.

2. Test Drive Take your vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and ensure the braking performance feels normal.

Conclusion

Installing rear drum brakes can be a valuable skill for any car enthusiast. With patience and attention to detail, you can complete this job on your own. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s service manual for any specific instructions relative to your model. If you feel uncertain at any point, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional mechanic to ensure your safety and the reliability of your vehicle's braking system.