Ways to Fix a Brake Drum That Won't Come Off

How to Remove a Stuck Brake Drum

If you've ever attempted to replace or service your vehicle's brakes, you may have encountered a stubborn brake drum that refuses to budge. This can be frustrating, especially when you have work to do. Brake drums can become stuck due to rust, corrosion, or simply the pressure of the brake shoes against the drum. Here, we will outline step-by-step methods to safely and effectively remove a stuck brake drum.

Tools You Will Need

1. Wheel Lug Wrench 2. Jack and Jack Stands 3. Brake Drum Puller (optional but helpful) 4. Rubber Mallet or Hammer with a Block of Wood 5. Pliers 6. Penetrating Oil (like WD-40) 7. Safety Goggles and Gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Safety First

Before you begin any work on your vehicle, ensure you are in a safe environment. Park the car on a level surface and activate the parking brake. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from debris and sharp edges.

Step 2 Loosen the Lug Nuts

Using the wheel lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts of the wheel covering the brake drum. It’s recommended to loosen them while the wheel is still on the ground to prevent the wheel from spinning.

Step 3 Lift the Vehicle

Once the lug nuts are loosened, use a jack to lift the vehicle. Make sure to place jack stands securely under the vehicle to avoid any accidents. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

Step 4 Remove the Wheel

After the vehicle is secured on jack stands, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel

. You should now have clear access to the brake drum.

Step 5 Inspect the Brake Drum

Take a moment to inspect the brake drum and surrounding components. Look for signs of corrosion or damage, as this can help you determine the best method for removal.

Step 6 Apply Penetrating Oil

how to remove a stuck brake drum

If the brake drum appears rusted or stuck, apply a generous amount of penetrating oil to the edges of the drum where it meets the hub. Allow it a few minutes to soak in and loosen any rust or grime.

Step 7 Use a Rubber Mallet

Using a rubber mallet, gently tap around the circumference of the brake drum. This can help break any rust or corrosion seal. If you do not have a rubber mallet, a typical hammer can be used, but be sure to place a block of wood between the hammer and the drum to avoid causing damage.

Step 8 Try to Pull the Drum Off

After tapping, attempt to pull the brake drum off. If it’s still stuck, consider using a brake drum puller. This tool attaches to the drum and provides leverage to pull it away from the hub.

Step 9 Check for Adjustments

Sometimes, the brake shoes expand and can catch on the inside of the drum. If the drum is still not coming off, you may need to access the adjustment mechanism at the back of the drum. Adjust the brake shoes to make them smaller and easier to remove.

Step 10 Remove and Replace or Service

Once you’ve successfully removed the brake drum, you can either service the brakes or replace the drum as necessary. Inspect the brake shoes for wear, and check the brake components for any other needed repairs.

Step 11 Reassemble

After servicing or replacing the brake components, carefully reassemble the drum, wheel, and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands once everything is back in place.

Step 12 Test

Finally, before driving, test the brakes at a low speed to ensure everything is functioning properly. If you experience any issues, it may be worthwhile to recheck your installation or consult with a professional.

Conclusion

Removing a stuck brake drum can be a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be accomplished safely and effectively. Always remember to prioritize safety and take your time with each step. If you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional mechanic for assistance. Happy repairing!