how to take drum brakes apart

How to Take Drum Brakes Apart A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are a common feature in many vehicles, especially in older models and certain light-duty applications. Understanding how to take them apart can be beneficial for maintenance or repair tasks. This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide for safely disassembling drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools - Adjustable wrench or socket set - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Drum brake adjustment tool (optional) - Brake grease - Clean rags - Safety goggles and gloves

Safety First

Before working on your vehicle, always prioritize safety. Ensure the car is on a flat surface, and use wheel chocks to prevent it from rolling. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from brake dust and debris.

Step 1 Remove the Wheel

Begin by loosening the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be working. Use a lug wrench for this. Once the nuts are loosened, lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

Step 2 Inspect the Drum

With the wheel removed, take a moment to visually inspect the drum brake for any obvious signs of wear, damage, or leaking brake fluid. This step can help identify if you need to replace any components during disassembly.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

Locate the screws or retaining clips that hold the brake drum in place. These may vary depending on the vehicle model. Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove them. If the drum seems stuck, gently tap around its circumference with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Once free, carefully slide the drum off the hub.

Step 4 Exposing the Brake Assembly

With the drum removed, you will now see the brake shoes and the associated hardware. Before proceeding, it’s a good idea to take a picture of the assembly to reference during reassembly. This will be helpful when putting everything back together.

Step 5 Remove the Brake Shoes

Begin by detaching the spring mechanisms connecting the shoes to the backing plate. Use pliers to carefully remove the springs to avoid stretching or damaging them. Once the springs are off, slide the brake shoes away from the cylinder and remove them from the backing plate.

Step 6 Disconnect the Wheel Cylinder

If you need to replace or inspect the wheel cylinder, you’ll have to disconnect the brake lines. Make sure to have a container handy for any brake fluid that may leak out. Loosen and remove the nuts connecting the lines to the cylinder, then unbolt the cylinder from the backing plate.

Step 7 Clean and Inspect Parts

Now that the assembly is apart, clean all components with brake cleaner to remove dust and debris. Inspect the shoes, drum, springs, and wheel cylinder for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts.

Step 8 Reassemble the Brake System

Follow your reference picture to reassemble the brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and any other components. Ensure all springs are properly reattached for optimal functionality. Once everything is in place, slide the drum back on and secure it with the necessary screws or clips.

Conclusion

Taking apart drum brakes may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and careful attention to detail, it's a manageable task. Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. Regular maintenance of your brakes is essential for safety and performance – don't overlook this important aspect of vehicle care!