how to put rear drum brakes back together

How to Put Rear Drum Brakes Back Together

Rear drum brakes are a vital part of your vehicle's braking system, providing essential stopping power. If you’ve disassembled your rear drum brakes for maintenance or replacing components, it’s crucial to ensure that everything is reassembled correctly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to put rear drum brakes back together safely and effectively.

1. Gather Your Tools and Components

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and components

- New brake shoes - Brake drum - Brake hardware kit (springs, retainers, etc.) - Brake lubricant - A jack and jack stands - Wrenches and sockets - A screwdriver - Safety glasses and gloves

Having everything ready will streamline the process and help prevent any interruptions.

2. Prepare Your Work Area

Choose a flat, stable surface to work on. Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheel to gain access to the drum brakes. Ensure that your workspace is clean and well-lit, making it easier to see and handle the components.

3. Inspect Components

Before reassembling, inspect all brake components for wear or damage. This includes the brake shoes, springs, and the brake drum itself. If any component shows signs of excessive wear or damage, replace it before continuing.

4. Install New Brake Shoes

Start by placing the new brake shoes into their correct positions within the brake assembly. The shoes will typically fit into a specific orientation, so ensure they are properly seated against the backing plate. It's essential that they move freely and are not binding against other components.

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. Attach the Brake Hardware
how to put rear drum brakes back together

Next, install the brake hardware, including springs, retainers, and any adjusters. The hardware kit often includes a diagram or instructions on how to position the components correctly. Make sure the springs are securely attached and that the adjuster moves smoothly. The installation of these parts can often be tricky, so take your time to ensure they are fitted correctly to avoid issues down the road.

6. Lubricate Contact Points

Apply brake lubricant to the contact points where the shoes touch the backing plate. This helps to reduce friction and noise. However, be cautious not to get any lubricant on the friction surface of the shoes or drum, as this can adversely affect braking performance.

7. Install the Brake Drum

Carefully place the brake drum back over the assembled brake shoes. It should slide over them easily if everything is aligned correctly. If you face resistance, double-check the alignment of the brake shoes and hardware.

8. Adjust the Brake Shoes

Once the drum is in place, it's important to adjust the brake shoes. Most drum brakes have an adjuster that allows you to set the distance between the shoes and the drum. This step is crucial for ensuring that the brakes engage properly when you apply the pedal. Adjust until there is a slight drag on the drum when you spin it by hand.

9. Reinstall the Wheel

With the drum and shoes properly adjusted, it’s time to reinstall the wheel. Securely fasten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure an even fit.

10. Test the Brakes

Before driving, it’s important to pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the shoes against the drum properly. Once you've done this, take a moment to check the brake action by cautiously rolling the vehicle back and forth to make sure the brakes engage correctly.

Conclusion

Reassembling rear drum brakes can seem daunting but is manageable with patience and attention to detail. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure your vehicle’s braking system functions effectively and safely. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions related to the year and model of your vehicle. If in doubt, seek assistance from a professional mechanic. Safe driving begins with well-functioning brakes!