tools needed to replace drum brakes

Tools Needed to Replace Drum Brakes

Replacing drum brakes is an essential skill for car enthusiasts and a useful maintenance task that can save money on labor costs. While it might seem daunting, with the right tools and preparation, this task can be accomplished even by those with minimal mechanical experience. Here’s a guide on the essential tools you will need to replace drum brakes effectively.

1. Safety Gear

Before you begin any automotive work, safety should always be your top priority. Ensure you have the following safety gear

- Safety glasses Protect your eyes from dust and debris that can be kicked up during the process. - Gloves Wear durable gloves to shield your hands from sharp metal and brake dust.

2. Basic Hand Tools

A standard set of automotive hand tools is essential for brake replacement. These typically include

- Socket set A good quality socket set is vital, especially with deep sockets for those hard-to-reach areas. Common sizes for drum brakes are 7mm to 19mm. - Wrenches Both standard and adjustable wrenches will help in loosening and tightening bolts. - Brake line wrench This specialty tool helps to disconnect brake lines without damaging the fittings.

3. Drum Brake Tool Kit

Purchasing or borrowing a drum brake tool kit will make the job much easier. A typical kit includes

- Brake spring tool This tool is specifically designed to help remove and install the brake springs safely. - Brake adjusting tool This tool is helpful for adjusting the brake shoes and ensuring they fit snugly against the drum. 4. Specialty Tools

- Pliers Needle-nose pliers are essential for grasping small parts such as clips and springs. Flat-nose pliers can also help manipulate the brake shoes and springs. - Torque wrench Using a torque wrench ensures that you are tightening bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings, preventing over-tightening or under-tightening. - Brake cleaner This is critical for cleaning the brake drum and other components as it helps remove grease, grime, and brake dust.

5. Lubricants and Cleaners

Before you start reassembling your drum brakes, it’s vital to have some lubricants and cleaners on hand

- Brake grease Specialty brake grease is used to lubricate the contact points on the brake shoes and backing plate. It helps reduce noise and wear. - Parts cleaner This is handy for degreasing and cleaning various brake components.

6. Replacement Parts

Ensure you have the necessary replacement parts before you begin, including

- Brake drums Inspect the existing drums for wear. If they are worn beyond acceptable limits, replacement is necessary. - Brake shoes Always replace your brake shoes at the same time as your drums to ensure effective braking performance. - Springs and hardware These small parts are often weakened or stretched and may require replacement.

7. Additional Equipment

Having additional equipment can further enhance your brake replacement experience

- Jack and jack stands Use a sturdy jack to lift the vehicle, along with jack stands to securely hold it in place for safety. - Carpet or mat A mat can help provide a comfortable working area, particularly if you’re working on a hard surface.

Conclusion

Replacing drum brakes may seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be a straightforward task. Ensure you have all the tools listed above and take your time to understand each step of the process. By handling brake replacements yourself, you not only save money but also gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle's mechanics, making you a more knowledgeable and confident car owner. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions—happy repairing!