Steps to Replace Rear Wheel Studs on Drum Brake Systems

How to Replace Rear Wheel Studs with Drum Brakes

Replacing rear wheel studs is a necessary skill for any car enthusiast or a mandatory repair for those who find themselves with a damaged wheel stud. This guide will take you through the steps to replace rear wheel studs on a vehicle equipped with drum brakes. It’s a straightforward process that requires a few essential tools and parts. Ensure you have a safe place to work, preferably with the right equipment and ample lighting.

Tools and Materials Required

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials

1. New Wheel Studs Ensure they are the right size for your vehicle. 2. Lug Wrench For removing the wheel nuts. 3. Jack and Jack Stands To lift the vehicle safely. 4. Hammer For installing the new studs. 5. Socket Set or Wrench To remove the drum brake assembly. 6. Pliers Preferably locking pliers for better grip if needed. 7. Brake Cleaner For cleaning the components. 8. Grease To lubricate the new studs.

Step 1 Safety First

Before starting any work, ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface, and engage the parking brake. Prepare your jack and jack stands to lift the rear of the car safely. Make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from debris and sharp edges.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

Using the lug wrench, loosen the wheel lugs slightly before lifting the vehicle. Once the vehicle is safely elevated with jack stands in place, remove the wheel entirely. This will give you clear access to the drum brake assembly.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

Most drum brakes can be removed easily, but if the drum is stuck due to rust or dirt, you might need to use a brake drum puller. Inspect the brake components for any wear and tear while you have them exposed. Once the drum is removed, you will have access to the wheel studs.

To replace the damaged wheel studs, you first need to take them out. You might find that some of the studs are broken or stripped. If so, you can tap them out using a hammer. You can also use a pliers tool or a stud extractor if the studs are particularly stubborn. Make sure to not damage the surrounding components while doing this. It’s ideal to replace all the studs on that wheel, even if only one is damaged.

Step 5 Installing New Wheel Studs

Once the old studs are out, it’s time to install the new ones. If your wheel hub allows it, insert the new stud from the back of the brake drum. Ensure that the splines of the stud align properly with the hub. Using a hammer, gently tap the stud into place. Be cautious; you don’t want to damage the threads.

If the studs can't be pushed in all the way by hand, you can use a lug nut to pull the stud in completely. Just place the lug nut on your new stud and tighten it down using a wrench until the stud is fully seated.

Step 6 Reassemble the Brake Drum and Wheel

Once all studs have been replaced and are secure, it’s time to reattach the brake drum. Ensure it spins freely. Attach the wheel back onto the hub, making sure the lug holes align with the new studs. Replace all lug nuts and hand-tighten them.

Step 7 Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Lug Nuts

Carefully use the jack to lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once the vehicle is resting on its wheels, use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut in a crisscross pattern to ensure even distribution. This will prevent the wheel from becoming unbalanced.

Step 8 Test Drive

After everything has been reassembled, take your vehicle for a short test drive. Listen for any unusual noises and check the brakes to make sure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear wheel studs on a drum brake system is a manageable task that requires some basic tools and knowledge. By following these steps carefully, you can efficiently perform this repair, ensuring your vehicle is safe and driving smoothly. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific details and any additional precautions. Happy repairing!