Guide to Removing the Rear Brake Drum on a Mitsubishi Canter Vehicle

How to Remove the Rear Brake Drum on a Mitsubishi Canter

Removing the rear brake drum on a Mitsubishi Canter may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can complete this task efficiently. This process is essential for maintenance, as it allows for inspection and replacement of the brake shoes, which are crucial for safe vehicle operation.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools at hand

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Pliers - Clean cloths - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes (if replacing)

Safety Precautions

Always prioritize safety. Park the Mitsubishi Canter on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes from debris and brake dust.

1. Loosen the Wheel Nuts Begin by using the lug wrench to loosen the wheel nuts. Do not remove them completely at this stage.

2. Raise the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and place the jack stands securely under the frame for safety. Ensure that the car is stable before proceeding.

3. Remove the Wheel With the vehicle safely raised, remove the loosened wheel nuts and take off the wheel to expose the brake drum.

4. Inspect the Brake Drum Before removing the drum, inspect it for excessive wear. If it's in good condition, you may skip replacing it, but if damaged, a replacement is advisable.

5. Remove the Brake Drum The brake drum might be stuck due to rust or wear. If it's stubborn, gently tap it with a hammer to loosen it. If necessary, use a brake drum puller for more forceful removal. Ensure that you are not damaging any components during this process.

6. Disconnect the Brake Shoes Once the drum is removed, take note of how the brake shoes are connected. Use your pliers and screwdrivers to detach the shoes from the backing plate.

7. Inspect and Replace Check the condition of the brake shoes and other components like springs and retainers. If any part is worn out, replace it with new components.

8. Reassembly After replacing the necessary parts, reassemble everything in reverse order. Make sure everything is secured and placed correctly.

9. Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the nuts. Lower the vehicle and then tighten the nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

10. Final Inspection Before taking your Mitsubishi Canter for a drive, check the brake operation. Ensure everything is functioning correctly and that there are no unusual noises.

Conclusion

Removing the rear brake drum on a Mitsubishi Canter is a task that can be accomplished with patience and attention to detail. By following the above steps, you can ensure that your vehicle’s braking system is in top shape, providing safety and reliability on the road. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle but also enhances driving safety for you and your passengers.