how to take off rear drum brakes

How to Take Off Rear Drum Brakes

Removing rear drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little bit of knowledge, this task can be accomplished by anyone with some mechanical familiarity. Whether you're performing routine repairs or simply replacing your brake shoes, this guide will walk you through the steps to safely and efficiently take off rear drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Screwdrivers (flat head and Phillips) - Pliers - A bungee cord or a piece of wire - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes (if replacing) - Shop towel or rag - Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First Begin by parking your vehicle on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels before jacking the vehicle up. Do not remove them completely yet.

3. Jack Up the Vehicle Position the jack under the vehicle’s jacking point and lift the rear end. Once elevated, securely place jack stands underneath the vehicle to ensure stability while you work.

4. Remove the Wheel Finish removing the lug nuts and take the wheel off. This will expose the drum brake assembly.

5. Inspect the Brake Components Take a moment to inspect the brake components for wear or damage. This is a good time to check the condition of your brake shoes, drums, and springs.

6. Remove the Drum - If the drum does not come off easily, you may need to remove the small retaining screws (if present). - Use a brake drum puller if the drum is stuck due to corrosion or buildup. Position the puller on the drum and tighten it until the drum comes loose. Be cautious and apply even pressure. - If the drum still resists, check the adjuster screw on the backing plate and adjust it to back off the brake shoes.

7. Disconnect the Brake Components Once the drum is removed, you’ll see the brake shoes, springs, and other components. Take a photo or make a sketch to remember how everything is assembled. - Carefully remove the return spring by either using pliers or by hand, taking care not to damage it.

8. Remove the Brake Shoes Disconnect the shoes from their anchors and remove them from the backing plate. Pay attention to how the shoe assembly is connected for reinstallation.

9. Clean the Area Use brake cleaner to clean the backing plate and drum surface. Remove any dust and debris to ensure a smooth installation of the new brake shoes.

10. Install New Brake Shoes (if applicable) If you are replacing the brake shoes, install the new shoes in reverse order of removal. Ensure that the shoes are correctly mounted and that springs are secured.

11. Reassemble the Brake Drum Replace the drum over the brake shoes and ensure that everything fits properly. If necessary, re-adjust the automatic adjuster mechanism.

12. Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground and then tighten the lug nuts completely in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

13. Test the Brakes Before driving, press the brake pedal several times to ensure that the brake shoes seat properly against the drum. Check for any unusual noises or issues.

Conclusion

Removing rear drum brakes is a manageable task that can be completed with patience and care. Always ensure you have the right tools and follow safety procedures. Whether you’re just checking the brakes or replacing them entirely, understanding how to take off rear drum brakes will save you time and money, making you more knowledgeable about your vehicle's maintenance. Happy wrenching!