A Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Rear Drum Brakes Easily

How to Do Rear Drum Brakes

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is crucial for safety and performance. Rear drum brakes, while not as commonly found on modern vehicles as disc brakes, are still prevalent in many older models and some economy cars. Understanding how to service rear drum brakes is essential for any car enthusiast or DIY mechanic. In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in servicing your rear drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - Brake spring tool - Screwdriver - Wrenches - Grease and anti-seize compound - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

Start by ensuring the car is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged. Loosen the lug nut slightly on the rear wheels but do not remove them entirely. Next, jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands for safety. Once elevated, remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Drum

With the wheels removed, you can now access the brake drums. Inspect the drums for any signs of wear or damage such as deep grooves, cracks, or excessive rust. If any defects are visible, consider having the drums resurfaced or replaced.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

If the brake drums do not come off easily, you may need to use a brake drum puller to remove them. Attach the puller to the drum and turn the handle to apply pressure gradually until the drum loosens. Be cautious during this step, as the drum can be heavy and can fall unexpectedly.

Step 4 Take Note of the Current Setup

Before disassembling the brake components, take pictures or make notes of how the springs and shoes are positioned. This will help you when reassembling.

Start by removing the retaining clips and springs that hold the brake shoes in place. Use the brake spring tool to safely disconnect the springs. Once the springs are removed, take out the old brake shoes. Be careful around the adjuster mechanism, as it can spring back.

Step 6 Clean the Brake Assembly

Use brake cleaner to remove any dust and debris from the backing plate and surrounding area. Ensure all old grease is removed and that the surface is clean for the installation of new components.

Step 7 Install New Brake Shoes

Take your new brake shoes and install them according to your notes or pictures from earlier. Ensure that the shoes are oriented correctly and that the adjuster mechanism is in place. Reattach the springs using your brake spring tool, ensuring they are secure.

Step 8 Reinstall the Brake Drum

Once the new shoes are installed, carefully place the brake drum back over the shoes. Ensure that it rotates freely. If the drum is too tight, you may need to adjust the shoes using the adjuster.

Step 9 Reassemble the Components

After the drum is installed, replace the wheel, secure it with lug nuts (do not fully tighten at this stage), and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure they are evenly secured.

Step 10 Test the Brakes

Before taking your vehicle back on the road, it's important to pump the brakes several times to seat the new shoes. This initial testing should be done in a safe area where you can perform a few low-speed stops to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Servicing rear drum brakes is a manageable task for those with basic mechanical skills. Regular maintenance of your vehicle's braking system not only enhances safety but also improves the vehicle's overall performance. With proper tools and a careful approach, you'll be able to ensure your drum brakes are in top condition. Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific details related to your model, and consult a professional if you're unsure about any step in the process.