replace rear drum brake shoes

How to Replace Rear Drum Brake Shoes A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. One of the essential components of the braking system, especially in older models and some modern vehicles, is the rear drum brake. When you notice that your brakes are not responding as they should, it may be time to replace the rear drum brake shoes. This article will guide you through the process of replacing your rear drum brake shoes, step by step.

Understanding Rear Drum Brakes

Before diving into the replacement process, it is vital to understand how rear drum brakes work. The braking mechanism consists of a drum that rotates with the wheel and brake shoes that press against the inside of the drum to create friction, slowing down or stopping the vehicle. Over time, these shoes wear out due to continuous friction, leading to decreased braking performance.

Tools and Materials

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials

- A jack and jack stands - A tire iron - A brake drum puller - Wrenches and socket set - Screwdrivers - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - Brake grease - Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Replacement Process

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Safety First Always engage the parking brake. 2. Lift the Vehicle Using the jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. This allows you to work safely beneath the vehicle.

Step 2 Remove the Rear Wheels

1. Loosen the Lugnuts Before lifting the vehicle, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels using a tire iron. 2. Remove the Wheels With the vehicle safely lifted, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the rear wheels.

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Check for any visible damage or excessive wear. 2. Remove the Brake Drum If the brake drum does not easily slide off, you may need a brake drum puller. Use the puller to gently remove the drum, exposing the brake shoes.

Step 4 Remove the Old Brake Shoes

1. Take Pictures Before disassembling anything, take pictures of the existing setup to aid in reassembly. 2. Disconnect the Brake Shoes Remove the springs and any retaining clips holding the shoes in place. Use caution, as the springs can be under tension.

Step 5 Install the New Brake Shoes

1. Compare New Shoes Ensure that the new brake shoes match the old ones. 2. Install the New Shoe Set Follow the configuration observed in your pictures. Attach the new shoes and secure them with the retaining clips and springs.

Step 6 Reassemble the Brake Drum

1. Clean the Brake Drum Use brake cleaner to clean the surface before reassembly. 2. Reinstall the Brake Drum Carefully place the brake drum back over the new shoes, ensuring everything is aligned properly.

Step 7 Reattach the Wheels

1. Put the Wheels Back on Slide the rear wheels onto the hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Use the jack to lower your vehicle back to the ground. Once stable, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 8 Test the Brakes

Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to set the shoes in place and restore brake pressure. Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear drum brake shoes is a manageable task for those comfortable with basic vehicle maintenance. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure your vehicle's braking system remains in excellent condition, providing safety for you and your passengers. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations. If in doubt, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Safety should always come first!