how to make a brake drum puller

How to Make a Brake Drum Puller

When working on a vehicle's braking system, one of the more challenging tasks can be removing a brake drum, especially if it hasn't been taken off in a while. It's essential to have the right tools for the job, and a brake drum puller can be a lifesaver. Not only can quality pullers be expensive, but making one yourself can save time and money. This article will guide you through the steps of making a brake drum puller, ensuring you have what you need for this crucial job.

Understanding the Brake Drum Puller

Before diving into the DIY process, it's vital to understand the function of a brake drum puller. A brake drum puller is designed to pull the drum off the wheel hub using a combination of leverage and force. It usually consists of a few key components a central screw, hooks that grip the drum, and arms that maintain stability.

Materials Needed

To build your own brake drum puller, gather the following materials

1. A Steel Plate (1/4-inch thick) This will be the base of your puller. Make sure it's strong enough to withstand high tension. 2. Three Angle Iron Pieces (about 12 inches each) These will serve as the arms of the puller. 3. A Heavy-Duty Screw This will be at the center of your puller, applying the pulling force. 4. Washers and Nuts These are used to secure the screw and add stability. 5. A Drill and Drill Bits For creating holes in the steel plate and angle iron. 6. A Welding Machine or Heavy-Duty Bolts For assembling the parts together if you prefer a robust unit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steel Plate Take the steel plate and cut it into a circular shape with a diameter slightly larger than your brake drum. This will serve as the base of your puller.

2. Drill Holes for the Arms Mark and drill three equally spaced holes around the edge of the plate. These holes should be large enough to accommodate the angle iron pieces.

3. Cut the Angle Iron Take your angle iron pieces and cut them into lengths of about 12 inches. The exact length may vary based on your vehicle's specific requirements, so adjust as needed.

4. Attach the Arms Insert one end of each angle iron into the holes drilled in the steel plate. If you're welding, weld them securely to the plate. Alternatively, use heavy-duty bolts and nuts to fasten them in place.

5. Prepare the Central Screw Take your heavy-duty screw and drill a hole in the center of the steel plate. Make sure the hole is slightly larger than the screw's diameter to allow movement.

6. Secure the Central Screw Insert the screw through the center hole. Use washers and a nut to secure it in place. This screw will be the main mechanism for pulling the drum off.

7. Test the Puller Once everything is attached and secure, test your brake drum puller on a brake drum (preferably one that is not attached to a vehicle). Make sure the arms grip properly and can withstand significant force without bending or breaking.

Using Your Brake Drum Puller

Once your brake drum puller is complete, using it is relatively straightforward. Position it on the brake drum and ensure that the arms of the puller are properly aligned with the drum edges. Turn the central screw clockwise to apply pressure to the brake drum. As you tighten the screw, the puller will generate enough force to detach the drum from the wheel hub.

Conclusion

Making your own brake drum puller is not only economical, but it also equips you with a valuable tool for your automotive repair needs. Always remember to prioritize safety by wearing protective gear while working on your vehicle. With this DIY project, you'll be able to tackle brake drum removal with confidence and skill. Happy wrenching!