how to put a drum brake back together

How to Put a Drum Brake Back Together A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a common braking system found in many vehicles, particularly older models and some commercial vehicles. Understanding how to put a drum brake back together is essential for anyone looking to maintain their vehicle or perform brake repairs. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly reassemble a drum brake system, ensuring it operates effectively and safely.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before beginning the reassembly process, gather the necessary tools and materials

1. Tools - Brake spring tool - Flathead screwdriver - Phillips screwdriver - Pliers - Torque wrench - Hammer

2. Materials - New brake shoes (if replacing) - Brake drum - Brake hardware kit (springs, clips, etc.) - Brake cleaner - Lubricant (high-temp brake grease)

Step-by-Step Reassembly

1. Clean the Components Start by cleaning all components with brake cleaner to remove dust, grease, and old brake material. This will help ensure a proper fit and prevent contamination that could affect braking performance.

2. Inspect the Drum and Shoes Before reassembly, inspect the brake drum for any signs of wear, scoring, or cracking. If the drum is worn beyond specifications, it must be replaced. Check the brake shoes as well; if they are worn down to the manufacturer's limit, replace them.

3. Position the Brake Shoes Place the new or cleaned brake shoes into the backing plate in their designated positions. Ensure the shoes are oriented correctly the shoe with the larger lining goes on the rear side (the primary shoe), while the smaller lining goes on the front side (the secondary shoe).

4. Install the Hold-Down Springs Using your brake spring tool, install the hold-down springs. These springs secure the brake shoes to the backing plate. Ensure they are installed firmly, as they help maintain the position of the shoes during braking.

5. Attach the Adjuster Kit If your drum brake system includes an adjusting mechanism (often found at the bottom of the brake assembly), install the adjuster kit next. This component helps maintain correct shoe-to-drum clearance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper orientation and assembly.

6. Connect the Return Springs At this point, attach the return springs to each of the brake shoes. These springs pull the shoes back to their original position after the brakes are applied, ensuring minimal drag. Use your pliers to secure the springs in place.

7. Install the Wheel Cylinder If you removed the wheel cylinder during disassembly, it’s time to reattach it. Ensure it is oriented correctly and that the pistons are clean. Tighten the cylinder bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

8. Attach the Brake Drum Slide the brake drum over the newly assembled brake shoes. Ensure that it rotates freely. If it feels too tight, you may need to adjust the brake shoes using the adjuster mechanism until you achieve the correct fit.

9. Adjust the Brake Shoes Next, adjust the brake shoes to ensure they make the right contact with the drum. Typically, you want about a slight drag when the drum is turned by hand. This can usually be done via the adjuster screw mentioned earlier.

10. Final Checks Once you have everything in place, double-check all connections, springs, and components. Ensure that nothing is loose, and that all parts are properly aligned.

11. Reinstallation After successfully reassembling the brake drum, reinstall the wheel and tire. Torque the lug nuts to the specified setting in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

12. Test the Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper seating of the brake shoes. Test the brakes at low speed to make sure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Reassembling a drum brake system can be an intricate process, but with careful attention to detail and the right tools, it can be accomplished successfully. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions related to your model. By following these steps, you can ensure your brake system remains in optimal condition, contributing to the overall safety of your vehicle. Remember, if you ever feel unsure during the process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Safety first!