Steps to Inspect Your Vehicle's Drum Brakes Effectively and Safely

How to Check Drum Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes have been a staple in automotive braking systems for decades. While they may not be as common in modern vehicles as disc brakes, many cars still utilize drum brakes, particularly in the rear wheels. Understanding how to check your drum brakes is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to check your drum brakes effectively.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start, gather the necessary tools - A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - A brake drum puller (if needed) - A flashlight - A ruler or caliper for measuring

Step 1 Safety First

Before checking your drum brakes, ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly on the wheel you will be removing but do not completely remove them yet. Then, use the jack to lift the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands. After securing the vehicle, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Drum

With the wheel removed, you can now access the brake drum. Examine the exterior for signs of rust, cracks, or any deformities. If the drum appears damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Carefully check if the brake drum can be removed easily. If it appears stuck, you may need to use a brake drum puller. This tool helps to extract the drum by applying equal pressure around its circumference. Once the drum is off, you will have a clear view of the internal components.

Step 4 Check the Brake Shoes

Inside the drum, you will find the brake shoes. Inspect the shoes for wear and tear. A shoe needs to have at least 1/8 inch of friction material remaining to be effective. If the material is worn down to the metal or appears uneven, the shoes should be replaced.

Step 5 Look for Contamination

Examine the surface of the brake shoes and drum for any signs of contamination from oil, grease, or brake fluid. These substances can significantly reduce braking effectiveness. If contamination is present, you may need to clean or replace the affected parts.

Step 6 Measure the Brake Drum

Using a ruler or caliper, measure the inside diameter of the brake drum. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer's specifications found in the vehicle’s service manual. If the drum is worn beyond the specified limits, it should be replaced or machined.

Step 7 Inspect Hardware

Check the condition of brake springs, retainers, and other hardware components. Look for signs of rust, wear, or stretching. If any hardware is damaged, it’s wise to replace them to ensure proper brake function.

Step 8 Reassemble and Test

Once you have completed your inspection and made any necessary replacements, it’s time to reassemble the brake components. Carefully place the brake drum back onto the wheel hub, ensuring it fits snugly. Re-install the wheel, tightening the lug nuts slightly before lowering the vehicle back to the ground. Once on the ground, fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern for even distribution.

Conclusion

Regularly checking your drum brakes is vital for safe vehicle operation. By following these steps, you can easily inspect your drum brakes and address any issues before they become serious problems. If you’re ever in doubt or uncomfortable performing these checks yourself, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified mechanic. Remember, a well-maintained braking system is crucial for your safety on the road.