mgb rear brake drum removal

Removing the Rear Brake Drum on an MGB

Removing the rear brake drum on an MGB is a fundamental task for maintaining the vehicle's braking system. Regular maintenance helps ensure safety and optimal performance. In this article, we'll walk through the essential steps for safely and effectively removing the rear brake drum from your MGB.

Tools and Preparations

Before starting, gather the necessary tools a jack and jack stands, a lug wrench, a brake drum puller (if needed), and basic hand tools such as a socket set and a screwdriver. Make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves for protection. Always ensure your car is on a flat surface and securely parked.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts Begin by loosening the lug nuts on the rear wheel but do not remove them completely. This step should be done while the car is still on the ground to prevent the wheel from turning.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the rear of the MGB and secure it with jack stands. This will provide safe access to the rear brake assembly.

3. Remove the Wheel Now, take off the lug nuts and remove the wheel to expose the brake drum.

4. Inspect the Brake Drum Check the brake drum for any visible signs of wear or damage. If it appears to be in good condition, you can proceed with removing it.

5. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum does not pull off easily, it may be necessary to use a brake drum puller. Attach the tool according to its instructions and gently turn the handle to apply pressure. This should help in loosening the drum from the hub.

6. Disconnect Brake Components Depending on your maintenance needs, you may need to disconnect the brake components that are attached to the drum. Take care to note where each part belongs for reassembly.

7. Clean the Area Once the drum is removed, take the opportunity to clean the surrounding area and inspect the brake shoes and springs. Replace any worn components as necessary.

8. Reinstallation If you plan to reinstall the same drum, ensure it is clean and free of debris. Align it properly and press it back onto the hub, or install the new drum.

9. Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the car, and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure they are securely fastened.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively remove and inspect the rear brake drum on your MGB. Regular maintenance will help keep your vehicle in top shape, ensuring you enjoy many safe drives on the road.