Guide to Removing Rear Drum Brakes for Efficient Maintenance and Replacement

Removing Rear Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing rear drum brakes can seem like a daunting task, especially for those who have never tackled brake work before. However, with the right tools, a clear understanding of the process, and a bit of patience, anyone can successfully carry out this procedure. This article will guide you through the steps necessary for safely and effectively removing rear drum brakes from a vehicle.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the project, gather the following tools

1. Jack and Jack Stands To lift and securely support the vehicle. 2. Lug Wrench For removing the wheel nuts. 3. Brake Drum Puller To safely remove the drum if it’s stuck. 4. Socket Set To remove any bolts and screws. 5. Screwdrivers For prying and adjustments. 6. Pliers Useful for disconnecting springs. 7. Clean Cloth To wipe parts as needed. 8. Brake Cleaner To clean components after removal. 9. New Brake Parts If replacing worn components.

Safety First

Before diving into the task, it's essential to prioritize safety. Make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from debris. Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, and engage the parking brake. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling while you work.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Loosen the Wheel Nuts Before lifting the vehicle, use the lug wrench to loosen the nuts on the rear wheels. Do not completely remove them yet; just break their initial torque.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle until the tires are off the ground. Secure the vehicle on jack stands to ensure stability. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

3. Remove the Rear Wheels After securing the vehicle, remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the rear wheels. Set them aside in a safe spot.

4. Locate the Brake Drums With the wheels removed, you will see the brake drums. Inspect them for any visible signs of wear or damage.

5. Release the Brake Shoes Before removing the drum, you need to relieve the tension on the brake shoes. This is typically done by locating the star wheel adjuster at the bottom of the drum assembly. Use a screwdriver or brake adjustment tool to turn the star wheel and retract the shoes.

6. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum does not come off easily, it may be stuck. In this case, use a brake drum puller to safely extract it. Apply steady pressure until the drum comes loose from the hub.

7. Inspect Components Once the drum is removed, take a moment to inspect the brake shoes, springs, and hardware for wear and tear. Look for cracks, wear patterns, or any damage.

8. Remove the Brake Shoes If you plan to replace the brake shoes, disconnect the springs using pliers. Take note of how the springs are connected as you will need this information for reinstallation. Remove the shoes from the backing plate.

9. Clean the Area With the brake shoes removed, clean the backing plate and inspect it for any debris or rust. Use brake cleaner and a cloth to wipe everything down, preparing for new components if necessary.

10. Reinstallation If you are replacing the shoes, install the new ones in reverse order of removal. Make sure all springs and hardware are securely fastened, and readjust the shoes using the star wheel adjuster.

11. Reattach the Brake Drum Slide the drum back onto the hub, ensuring it fits snugly. Check that the shoes are properly seated inside the drum.

12. Reinstall the Wheels Place the wheels back onto the car and hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle.

13. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove the jack. Once the vehicle is securely on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Conclusion

Removing rear drum brakes doesn’t have to be a complex task. With the right tools and a bit of knowledge, you can perform this maintenance work confidently. Always remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions related to your model. Happy wrenching!