how to remove drum brake shoes

How to Remove Drum Brake Shoes A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing drum brake shoes can seem like a daunting task, especially for those who are not very familiar with brake systems. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can successfully remove drum brake shoes and replace them if needed. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps, providing useful tips along the way.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials

1. Lug wrench 2. Jack and jack stands 3. Brake cleaner 4. Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) 5. Pliers 6. A brake spring tool (optional but recommended) 7. Replacement brake shoes (if necessary) 8. Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake to prevent any movement. 2. Loosen Lug Nuts Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be removing the drum brake shoes. Do not remove them completely yet. 3. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to raise the vehicle and then place jack stands under the frame to secure it. Make sure the vehicle is stable before moving on. 4. Remove the Wheel Now you can fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the drum.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Drum

Before you begin removing the brake shoes, take a moment to inspect the brake drum for damage or excessive wear. If the drum is damaged, it may need to be replaced as well. If everything looks good, you can proceed.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Remove Retaining Screws (if applicable) Some drums will have retaining screws that need to be removed first. If present, use a screwdriver to take them out. 2. Pull Off the Drum If the drum is stuck, gently tap around its edge with a rubber mallet or hammer to loosen it. Once it’s free, slide the drum off to access the brake shoes underneath.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Shoes

1. Examine the Setup Take note of how the brake shoes are positioned and how the springs and adjusters are arranged. This will be helpful when you install the new shoes. 2. Remove the Return Springs Using pliers or the brake spring tool, remove the springs that hold the shoes in place. Be careful, as springs can snap back unexpectedly. 3. Disconnect the Adjuster If your brake system has an adjuster, detach it according to your observations from Step 4. This may involve removing a small cotter pin or clip. 4. Take Out the Shoes With everything disconnected, you can now carefully remove the brake shoes from the backing plate. Pay attention to how they come off so you can replicate the setup when installing new shoes.

Step 5 Clean and Inspect

With the brake shoes removed, it's a good time to clean the surrounding areas. Use brake cleaner to remove any dust and debris from the brake assembly. Inspect all components, including the drum, for wear and damage.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes (if applicable)

1. Position the New Shoes Place the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Make sure they are seated properly against the backing plate. 2. Reconnect the Adjuster and Springs Reattach the adjuster, followed by the return springs. Ensure that everything is snug and securely in place. 3. Install the Drum Slide the brake drum back onto the hub, ensuring it spins freely and is aligned properly. 4. Reattach Retaining Screws If applicable, reinsert any retaining screws you may have removed earlier.

Step 7 Reassemble the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On Position the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground. 3. Tighten Lug Nuts Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts securely in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.

Conclusion

Taking the time to learn how to remove and replace drum brake shoes can save you money on repairs and give you a deeper understanding of your vehicle. Always remember to prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions related to your make and model. Whether you're doing a complete brake overhaul or just checking and cleaning the components, careful attention to detail and adherence to safety can make the job a lot easier. Enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!