how to remove front drum brakes

How to Remove Front Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing front drum brakes may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of knowledge, it can be accomplished safely and efficiently. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary to remove front drum brakes from your vehicle. Remember that safety should always be your top priority, so be sure to wear appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

Before you start the process, gather the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips) - Wrench set - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Lubricant - Clean rags - Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Safety First

Before attempting any mechanical work, ensure you are wearing safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and gloves to guard your hands. Also, make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.

Step 2 Loosen the Lug Nuts

Start by loosening the lug nuts on the front wheels while the vehicle is still on the ground. Use a lug wrench to turn them counterclockwise, but don’t remove them completely just yet.

Step 3 Lift the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the front of the vehicle until it is high enough for you to work under safely. Once the vehicle is elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle's frame for added safety.

Step 4 Remove the Wheel

With the vehicle securely lifted, finish removing the loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel. Set the wheel aside in a safe location.

Step 5 Inspect the Brake Drum Assembly

Before proceeding, inspect the brake drum. If it appears rusty or corroded, you may need to clean it with brake cleaner. This will give you a clearer view and make the removal process easier.

Step 6 Remove the Brake Drum

Brake drums can sometimes be stubborn and may not easily slide off the hub. If it’s stuck, you can gently tap around the edges with a rubber mallet to loosen it. If it's still resistant, a brake drum puller may be necessary to help extract the drum from the hub. Attach the brake drum puller following the manufacturer's instructions and carefully tighten it until the drum releases.

Step 7 Disconnect the Brake Components

Once the brake drum is removed, inspect the components for wear and damage. If you plan to replace any parts, make a mental note of how they are connected. Start by disconnecting the brake shoes from the backing plate. You may need to remove springs and clips, which can usually be done with pliers and a screwdriver.

Take care during this process, as these parts are under tension and can snap back. Make sure to keep track of the order of assembly for reinstallation later.

Step 8 Check Wheel Cylinder and Lines

Inspect the wheel cylinder and brake lines for any signs of fluid leaks. If leaking is present, it may be necessary to replace the wheel cylinder before reassembling everything. If everything appears in order, you can proceed to clean the components using brake cleaner and a rag.

Step 9 Reassemble the Brake System

Once you have inspected and cleaned everything, installation is the reverse of removal. Start by attaching the new or cleaned brake shoes, reconnecting any springs or clips you removed earlier. Be attentive to the order of reassembly to ensure everything functions correctly.

Step 10 Replace the Brake Drum and Wheel

Position the brake drum back onto the hub and slide it on. Ensure it sits flush against the assembly. Reinstall the wheel and loosely hand-tighten the lug nuts to secure it in place.

Step 11 Lower the Vehicle

Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Once the vehicle is stable, remove the jack stands.

Step 12 Final Checks

With the vehicle back on the ground, go ahead and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the brake shoes against the drum properly.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully removed and reinstalled front drum brakes. Regular maintenance of your brake system is vital to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance. If you encounter any issues during this process or feel uncertain at any stage, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Happy driving!