how to remove hub from drum brakes

How to Remove Hub from Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing the hub from drum brakes can be a somewhat daunting task, especially for those unfamiliar with automotive repairs. However, with the right tools and a clear understanding of the process, you can successfully complete this task. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the steps necessary to remove a hub from drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, ensure you have the following tools and materials

1. Jack and Jack Stands To safely lift and support the vehicle. 2. Wheel Chocks To prevent the vehicle from rolling. 3. Lug Wrench To remove the wheel lug nuts. 4. Socket Set For removing bolts and nuts. 5. Breaker Bar For loosening stubborn bolts. 6. Hammer To tap on components if necessary. 7. Pry Bar Sometimes needed for leverage. 8. Brake Cleaner For cleaning parts once removed. 9. New Parts If applicable, you might need replacement wheel bearings or hub assemblies.

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Park your vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake. 2. Chock the Wheels Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you're working on the front hub, or in front of the front wheels if you're working on the rear hub. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts of the wheel associated with the drum brakes but do not remove them completely at this point.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Use the Jack Position the jack under the vehicle's manufacturer-recommended lifting points and raise the car high enough to remove the wheel. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Once the vehicle is lifted, place jack stands under the vehicle to provide additional safety. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

1. Remove the Lug Nuts Now, remove the previously loosened lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the drum brake assembly.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect for Screws Check if there are any screws holding the brake drum. If present, remove them. 2. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum doesn't easily slide off, you may need to use a hammer to tap it gently. Ensure that you don’t damage the drum surface while doing this. 3. Check the Brake Assembly After removing the drum, inspect the brake shoes and springs. Make a mental note or take pictures of how they are arranged for reassembly.

Step 5 Remove the Hub

1. Locate Attaching Bolts With the drum removed, locate the bolts or nuts securing the hub to the axle or backing plate. 2. Use a Socket Wrench Using the appropriate size socket, remove these bolts. If they're tight, a breaker bar can provide extra leverage. 3. Check for Additional Fasteners Some hubs may have retaining clips or other fasteners that need to be removed; check for any additional components that may obstruct the hub removal. 4. Carefully Pull the Hub Once all fasteners are removed, carefully pull the hub away from the axle. There may be some resistance; gently wiggling it from side to side can help free it without damaging any components.

Step 6 Clean and Inspect

1. Clean the Area Use brake cleaner to remove any dust or debris from the components you’ve exposed. 2. Inspect for Damage Before installing a new hub or reassembling, inspect for wear or damage in the brake assembly, bearings, and other connected parts.

Conclusion

Removing a hub from drum brakes doesn’t have to be a complicated process. With the correct tools and methodical procedures, you can undertake this task efficiently. Always remember that safety is paramount; work carefully and methodically to avoid accidents or damage to your vehicle. Once you've successfully removed the hub, you can proceed with any necessary repairs or replacements, confidently knowing you've tackled a significant task in vehicle maintenance.