how to remove stuck rear brake drum

How to Remove a Stuck Rear Brake Drum

Removing a stuck rear brake drum can be a frustrating experience, but with the right approach and tools, you can get the job done efficiently and safely. Brake drums can sometimes become stuck due to rust, corrosion, or the buildup of brake dust and debris. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove a stuck rear brake drum.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials

- Socket set - Wrench set - Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips) - Hammer or mallet - Brake cleaner - Safety goggles - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Pliers - Wire brush - Lubricant or penetrating oil (like WD-40)

Safety First

Before working on your vehicle, ensure you’re wearing safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris. Make sure the vehicle is on a flat surface, and engage the parking brake.

Step 1 Lift the Vehicle

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts Start by loosening the lug nuts on the rear wheels using a lug wrench. Do not completely remove them yet; just break their tension. 2. Jack Up the Vehicle Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle. Ensure you're lifting it from a strong point as per the owner’s manual.

3. Secure with Jack Stands Place jack stands under the vehicle for safety and lower the jack slightly until the stands bear the weight of the vehicle.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

1. Finish Removing the Lug Nuts Now, remove the lug nuts completely and take the wheel off. Set the wheel aside.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Drum

1. Check for Adjusters Before attempting to remove the drum, check if there are any adjustment holes on the backing plate. If the drums are not removed often, the shoes may be adjusted tightly against the drum.

2. Adjust the Brakes If you can locate an adjuster, use a flathead screwdriver to rotate it and back off the brake shoes. This can relieve some tension from the drum.

Step 4 Cleaning and Lubrication

1. Apply Brake Cleaner Spray brake cleaner around the drum to remove any dirt or debris that may be contributing to the sticking.

2. Use a Wire Brush Take a wire brush to scrub around the edges of the drum and the shoes. This will help remove any rust or buildup.

3. Apply Penetrating Oil Spray penetrating oil around the hub and let it sit for a few minutes to seep in.

Step 5 Removing the Drum

1. Gentle Taps with a Hammer If the drum still won’t budge, use a hammer or mallet to gently tap around the edge of the drum. This may help break the bond of rust or corrosion. Be cautious not to hit too hard to avoid damaging the drum.

2. Twist and Pull While applying pressure to pull the drum outward, twist it back and forth. This action may help free it from the shoes.

3. Utilize a Brake Drum Puller (if necessary) If it remains stuck, consider using a brake drum puller tool. It can apply even pressure to help remove the drum without uneven force.

Step 6 Final Checks

1. Inspect the Components Once you have removed the drum, inspect the brake shoes and hardware for wear. Replace any worn-out components before reassembling.

2. Clean and Lubricate Clean the area and apply a light coat of lubricant on the spindle and other metal contact points to help prevent future sticking.

Step 7 Reassembly

1. Install the Brake Drum Once everything is clean and inspected, carefully place the drum back on the hub. Ensure it slides on easily.

2. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on, hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle to the ground.

3. Tighten Lug Nuts Once on the ground, use a lug wrench to securely tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.

Conclusion

Removing a stuck rear brake drum can be challenging, but with patience and the right tools, it can be accomplished safely. Regular maintenance and proper adjustments can help avoid this issue in the future. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions related to your make and model. If you’re ever in doubt, consider seeking the help of a professional mechanic.