is it hard to replace drum brakes

Is It Hard to Replace Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes are one of the most traditional braking mechanisms used in vehicles, particularly in older models and certain rear-wheel-drive cars. While they have largely been overshadowed by disc brakes in modern automotive design, drum brakes still play a crucial role in ensuring vehicle safety and performance. If you’re a car enthusiast or simply someone interested in DIY car repairs, you may wonder if replacing drum brakes is a difficult task. In this article, we will explore the complexity of replacing drum brakes and provide a step-by-step guide for those looking to take on this project.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before delving into the replacement process, it’s essential to understand how drum brakes function. A drum brake system includes several key components the brake drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and various springs and hardware. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the inner surface of the spinning drum, creating friction that slows down the wheel.

While drum brakes can be effective, they often require more maintenance than their disc counterparts, especially if the vehicle is heavily used or driven in severe conditions.

Assessing Your Skills and Tools

Replacing drum brakes is a task that can typically be tackled by someone with moderate mechanical skills. However, you should be comfortable with basic tools and concepts, including hydraulic systems and brake components. Here’s a short list of tools you may need

1. Jack and Jack Stands For safely lifting your vehicle. 2. Lug Wrench To remove the wheel. 3. Brake Spring Tool Recommended for handling springs. 4. Pliers and Screwdrivers For various fastenings. 5. Socket Set For loosening bolts. 6. Brake Cleaner To clean components. 7. C-clamp To compress the brake cylinder while replacing parts.

Make sure you also have access to a repair manual for your specific vehicle model, as it will provide crucial information about specific steps, torque specifications, and component layouts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Drum Brakes

1. Preparation Begin by parking the vehicle on a level surface, turning off the engine, and engaging the parking brake. Gather all your tools and ensure you have the proper replacement parts.

2. Lifting the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear (or front) of the vehicle, depending on where the drum brakes are located. Secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.

3. Removing the Wheel Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the brake drum.

4. Inspecting the Brake Drum Before removal, inspect the drum for any damage or excessive wear. If the inner surface is scored or has a significant lip, it may need to be replaced or resurfaced.

5. Removing the Brake Drum Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove retaining screws or clips. Once free, gently pull the drum off the hub. If it’s stuck, a few taps with a mallet may help.

6. Replacing Brake Shoes Take note of how the old shoes are connected. It's often helpful to take pictures for reference. Remove the old shoes and replace them with new ones, making sure to attach them in the same configuration.

7. Install New Hardware Replace any worn springs or clips. Use a brake spring tool for easy installation.

8. Reassemble the Brake Drum Once the new brake shoes are installed, carefully place the brake drum back onto the hub.

9. Reattach the Wheel Put the wheel back on and secure it with the lug nuts. Make sure to tighten them in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightness.

10. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.

11. Test the Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the pads sit correctly against the drum.

Conclusion

Replacing drum brakes may sound intimidating, but with the right tools, a bit of patience, and some mechanical know-how, it can be accomplished successfully at home. However, if at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable, it is wise to consult a professional mechanic. Regular maintenance of all braking systems, including drum brakes, is crucial for safety, so make sure to stay informed and proactive in your vehicle care.