how to get rear brake drum off

How to Get the Rear Brake Drum Off A Comprehensive Guide

Removing the rear brake drum from a vehicle can seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a task that many DIY enthusiasts can tackle. Whether you're replacing brake shoes, inspecting the drum, or addressing brake system issues, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps to safely and effectively remove the rear brake drum.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting, ensure you have the following tools - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Drum brake removal tool (optional) - Screwdriver - Brake cleaner - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Park on a Level Surface Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake for safety. 2. Loosen Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel where you intend to remove the brake drum. Do not completely remove them; just break the initial resistance.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

1. Jack Up the Vehicle Use a floor jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Ensure the jack is positioned on a solid part of the frame. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Once elevated, place jack stands beneath the vehicle to provide additional safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

1. Take Off Lug Nuts Now that the vehicle is securely lifted, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. 2. Inspect the Brake Components Before proceeding to remove the brake drum, take a moment to inspect the brake components for any visible signs of wear or damage.

Step 4 Access the Brake Drum

1. Check for Retaining Screws Many brake drums have retaining screws. Look for these and, if present, use a screwdriver to remove them. If they are corroded or stuck, a little penetrating oil can help. 2. Remove the Drum In some cases, the drum may slide off easily. If it doesn’t, try tapping around the edge with a rubber mallet or a hammer, being careful not to damage the drum. If it remains stuck, check for any adjustment mechanisms on the brake assembly that may need to be released.

Step 5 Brake Adjustment

If the drum is difficult to remove due to the shoes being pressed against the drum, you may need to adjust the star wheel. The star wheel is typically located through an opening in the backing plate of the brake assembly

1. Locate the Star Wheel Use a flat screwdriver to turn the star wheel. This will retract the brake shoes slightly, allowing the drum to come off more easily. 2. Re-check the Drum Removal After adjusting the shoes, try to remove the drum again.

Step 6 Inspect and Clean

Once you have successfully removed the drum, clean the inside with brake cleaner to remove dust and debris. Inspect the brake shoes, drum surface, and hardware for any signs of wear and replace components as necessary.

Conclusion

Removing the rear brake drum can be accomplished with the right approach and tools. Always prioritize safety by using proper equipment and procedures. If you find yourself in over your head or encounter unexpected complications, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. With practice, you’ll gain confidence and skills in automotive maintenance, ensuring the longevity of your brake system.