A Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Removing Drum Brake Springs from Your Vehicle

How to Remove Drum Brake Springs A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing drum brake springs may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can complete the task effectively. Whether you're replacing worn-out brake shoes or conducting routine maintenance, understanding how to safely remove the springs is essential. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools

1. Safety Glasses - Protect your eyes from debris. 2. Brake Spring Tool - This specialized tool makes removing springs easier and safer. 3. Flathead Screwdriver - Useful for various tasks, including prying. 4. Adjustable Wrench - Necessary for loosening other components. 5. Pliers - For gripping and pulling springs. 6. Digital Camera or Smartphone - Take pictures to help remember the original configuration.

Safety First

Always prioritize safety when working on brake systems. Make sure your vehicle is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and you wear appropriate safety gear.

Step 1 Remove the Wheel

To access the drum brake assembly, you first need to remove the wheel. Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the car is still on the ground. Next, secure the vehicle with jack stands and completely remove the lug nuts before taking off the wheel.

Once the wheel is off, inspect the brake drum and surrounding components. Look for signs of wear or damage on the shoes and springs. If everything looks good but you still need to remove the springs, proceed to the next step.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

To get to the springs, you must take off the brake drum. Most drums are held in place by retaining screws or may need a gentle tap with a hammer to loosen them. Once loose, slide the drum off the hub.

Step 4 Identify and Mark the Springs

Before removing any springs, take pictures of the brake assembly. This will serve as a reference for reassembly. Identify the main springs (return springs), hold-down springs, and any other small components that may need to be removed.

Step 5 Remove the Springs

1. Hold-Down Springs Start with the hold-down springs. Use a brake spring tool to compress the spring and pull it off of the anchor pin. This might take some force, so be cautious to prevent snapping. 2. Return Springs Next, focus on the return springs. These springs connect the brake shoes to the backing plate. Use the brake spring tool to hook one end of the spring, pull it toward you, and then release it from the shoe. Repeat for the other side.

3. For stubborn springs, consider using pliers to grasp them more firmly. Always be cautious as tension can cause springs to snap back unexpectedly.

Step 6 Remove Brake Shoes

With the springs removed, you can now take out the brake shoes. Depending on your model, they may be held in place by additional clips or springs that need to be removed first.

Step 7 Reassemble the Components

With everything removed, you can replace the brake shoes or perform the necessary repairs. Refer to the pictures you took for accurate reassembly. Go in reverse order reattach the shoes, then put back the springs carefully using the brake spring tool.

Conclusion

Removing drum brake springs is a fundamental skill for anyone interested in vehicle maintenance. By following this step-by-step guide, you will not only save money but also gain a greater understanding of your vehicle's braking system. Always remember to work safely and methodically, ensuring all components are reassembled correctly for optimal performance. Happy repairing!