remove rear drum brakes

How to Remove Rear Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing rear drum brakes is a task that can seem daunting, especially for those who may not have much experience with automotive repairs. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, you can successfully remove these brakes and either replace them or perform maintenance as needed. In this guide, we will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that you feel confident in tackling this project.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you get started, gather the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Drum brake tool kit (includes a brake spring tool, adjuster tool, and more) - Screwdriver (flat and Phillips) - Pliers - Safety goggles and gloves - Replacement parts (if necessary)

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

Start by ensuring your vehicle is parked on a level surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement. Gather your tools and materials nearby for easy access.

Step 2 Elevate the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the rear of your vehicle. Once elevated, place jack stands securely under the rear frame to provide safety while you work. Never rely solely on the jack, as it can fail, causing serious injury.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

Using a lug wrench, remove the lug nuts from the rear wheel. After taking off the nuts, carefully pull the wheel off the hub and set it aside.

Step 4 Inspect the Drum Brake Assembly

With the wheel removed, you can now see the drum brake assembly. Before proceeding, take a moment to inspect everything. Look for leaks, wear, and any signs of damage. This is also an ideal time to assess whether you'll need to replace any components.

Step 5 Remove the Brake Drum

To remove the brake drum, check if there are any retaining screws holding it in place. If so, use a screwdriver to remove them. Then, gently tap the drum with a hammer to break any corrosion seal. If the drum doesn’t come off easily, it could be due to the brake shoes contacting the drum. In this case, you may need to adjust the brake shoes using the adjusting screw mechanism located on the back of the assembly.

Step 6 Disconnect Springs and Cables

Once the drum is removed, carefully disconnect the various springs, retainers, and cables using your brake tool kit. Be cautious, as these components are under tension and can snap back. Take a picture or make note of where everything goes; this will help you during reassembly.

Step 7 Remove the Brake Shoes

After disconnecting the springs and cables, you can now remove the brake shoes. They are typically held in place by pin retainers. Use pliers to carefully remove these retainers, and then slide the brake shoes off the anchor pin.

Step 8 Clean and Inspect

With the brake shoes removed, take the time to clean the brake assembly with brake cleaner. Remove any dust or debris to prevent contamination of the new parts if you plan on replacing them. Inspect all components for wear and damage.

Step 9 Reassemble the Brake Components

If you are replacing the brake shoes or any other components, now is the time to install the new parts. Follow the steps in reverse, ensuring that all springs and retainers are securely fastened. Refer to the picture you took earlier to make sure everything is in the right place.

Step 10 Reattach the Drum and Wheel

Once everything is back in place, carefully reattach the brake drum. If there were retaining screws, reinstall them as well. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground before fully tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.

Final Thoughts

Removing rear drum brakes is a manageable task that can save you money on labor costs while enhancing your understanding of vehicle maintenance. Always prioritize safety by using proper tools and taking your time. If at any point you feel uncertain, consulting a professional mechanic is a wise choice. Happy repairing!