replace rear drum brakes

Replacing Rear Drum Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to vehicle maintenance and safety, one of the critical components that often goes overlooked is the brake system. More specifically, the rear drum brakes, which play a vital role in ensuring the safety and functionality of your vehicle. Understanding when and how to replace these brakes can save you time, money, and increase your safety on the road. This article will guide you through the essential steps of replacing your rear drum brakes.

Understanding Rear Drum Brakes

Rear drum brakes operate by using friction to slow down a vehicle. Unlike disc brakes that utilize a caliper and a rotor, drum brakes consist of a drum, brake shoes, and a wheel cylinder. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid pushes the pistons in the wheel cylinder, which forces the brake shoes against the inner surface of the drum, creating the necessary friction to slow the vehicle. Over time, however, wear and tear can lead to reduced braking efficiency or complete failure, making it crucial to know when to replace them.

Signs That You Need to Replace Your Rear Drum Brakes

1. Squeaking or Grinding Noises If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or a grinding noise when applying the brakes, it’s a sign that the brake shoes are worn down, and replacement is needed.

2. Vibration or Pulsation If your brake pedal vibrates or pulsates when you apply the brakes, it may indicate that the drum is warped or that the shoes are unevenly worn.

3. Longer Stopping Distances If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop than it used to, this is a significant indicator that your brake system, including the rear drum brakes, may need attention.

4. Warning Light On some newer vehicles, a dashboard warning light will activate if there’s an issue with the brake system.

5. Visual Inspection If you inspect your rear brakes and notice scorched or cracked drums or worn-out shoes, it’s time for a replacement.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before diving into the replacement process, you’ll need some tools and materials - New brake drums and shoes - Brake cleaner - Torque wrench - Jack and jack stands - Wheel chocks - Basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers) - Brake lubricant

1. Prepare the Vehicle Park your vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent movement.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands for safety. Remove the rear wheels to gain access to the drum brakes.

3. Remove the Drum Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove retaining screws or clips. Once they are out, slide the drum off the wheel hub. If it's stuck, tap it gently with a hammer to loosen it.

4. Inspect Components Check the condition of the drums, wheel cylinders, and hardware. Replace any parts that show signs of wear.

5. Remove Old Brake Shoes Take off the old brake shoes by removing the springs and retainers holding them in place. Note the configuration for proper reinstallation.

6. Install New Brake Shoes Place the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Use brake lubricant on the backing plate to reduce friction and noise.

7. Replace the Drum Once the new shoes are securely in place, reassemble the drum onto the wheel hub. Ensure it fits snugly without any obstructions.

8. Reinstall the Wheels Put the wheels back on, and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

9. Test the Brake System Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake shoes are seated correctly. Check for leaks from the wheel cylinder.

10. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Finally, take it for a test drive to ensure everything functions correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a task that many car owners can undertake themselves. Regular maintenance not only ensures your vehicle’s safety but also extends the life of other brake components. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions, and if in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Keeping your brake system in top condition will provide peace of mind, knowing that you are safer on the road.