How to Take Off Brake Drum Without Using a Puller

How to Remove a Brake Drum Without a Puller

Removing a brake drum can be a daunting task for many DIY enthusiasts and even some seasoned mechanics, especially when a brake drum puller is not available. A brake drum is a crucial component in a drum brake system, and it is vital to ensure it is removed safely and efficiently to perform any necessary repairs or replacements. This article will outline methods to remove a brake drum without a dedicated puller, while also emphasizing the importance of safety and proper technique.

Understanding the Brake Drum

Before diving into the removal process, it's essential to understand what a brake drum is and how it functions. The brake drum fits over the brake shoes and serves as a housing for the braking system. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the drum, creating the friction needed to slow down or stop the vehicle. Over time, the drum may become stuck due to rust, corrosion, or simply dirt and debris, making removal difficult.

Tools You Will Need

While you may not have a brake drum puller, several tools can assist in removing a stuck brake drum. Gather the following tools

- A jack and jack stands - A tire iron - A hammer (preferably a rubber or dead blow hammer) - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - A wire brush or sandpaper - Pliers - Brake cleaner - Gloves and eye protection

Steps to Remove Brake Drum Without a Puller

1. Safety First Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement. Put on your gloves and eye protection before proceeding.

2. Raise the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the car off the ground and secure it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before you begin any work.

3. Remove the Wheel Using a tire iron, loosen the lug nuts of the wheel covering the brake drum. Remove the wheel entirely to access the brake drum.

4. Inspect the Brake Drum Before attempting removal, inspect the drum for any visible damage or rust. If it looks particularly corroded, a lubricant like penetrating oil may be applied around the hub and the drum’s mating surface. Let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate.

5. Use a Hammer to Tap the Drum With the wheel removed, take a rubber or dead blow hammer and gently tap around the edges of the brake drum. Start at the top and work your way down, tapping intermittently. This gentle force can help break the bond created by rust and corrosion.

6. Utilize the Adjuster For drums with self-adjusting brakes, locate the adjustment access hole on the rear of the drum. Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjusting wheel to retract the brake shoes further into the drum, which may aid in removing the drum.

7. Create Leverage If the brake drum still refuses to budge, you can make two opposing holes in the drum using a drill to create leverage points. Insert large screws into these holes, which can then act as handles. Using pliers, gently pull the screws in opposite directions as you continue to tap the drum.

8. Check for Obstructions Ensure that there are no components inside the drum preventing it from being removed, such as the e-brake cable or additional hardware. Gently move or disconnect any obstructions if necessary.

9. Final Pull If all else fails, you may need to use a more forceful technique. Pull the drum directly while applying more taps with the hammer. This should be the last resort, as excessive force can damage the drum.

10. Clean the Surface Once the drum is removed, clean the hub surface and inspect both the drum and brake components for wear and oiliness. This step is crucial for the proper reinstallation of the drum later.

Conclusion

Removing a brake drum without a puller is entirely feasible with the right approach and tools. By following the outlined steps and emphasizing safety, you can effectively perform this task without the need for specialized equipment. Always remember to regularly maintain your braking system, as proper upkeep enhances performance and safety on the road.