Step-by-step Guide to Installing Rear Drum Brakes on Your Vehicle

How to Install Rear Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing rear drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a systematic approach, you can successfully replace them yourself. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to ensure that you complete the task effectively and safely.

Tools and Materials Needed 1. New drum brakes (shoes, hardware kit) 2. Brake cleaner 3. Brake grease 4. Socket set 5. Wrench set 6. Screwdriver 7. Torque wrench 8. Brake spring removal tool 9. Safety glasses 10. Gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle Start by parking your vehicle on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the front wheels to prevent any movement. If you have access to a hydraulic lift, use it; otherwise, securely jack up the rear and place jack stands underneath for safety.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel Using a lug wrench, remove the lug nuts from the wheel covering the drum brakes. Once the nuts are removed, take off the wheel and set it aside.

Step 3 Inspect the Drum Brake Assembly With the wheel removed, inspect the brake drum for any signs of damage, such as scoring or excessive wear. If the drum is damaged, it should be replaced. If it’s in good condition, you can clean it with brake cleaner.

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum If the drum is stuck, you may need to tap it lightly with a hammer to loosen it. Once free, slide the drum off and set it aside.

Step 5 Remove the Old Brake Shoes Take a close look at the arrangement of the brake shoes before removal. Use the brake spring removal tool to disconnect the springs and hardware retaining the shoes in place. Carefully remove the old shoes, noting their configuration for reference during installation.

Step 6 Install New Brake Shoes Before installing the new shoes, apply a thin layer of brake grease to the contact points to reduce friction. Position the new brake shoes according to the reference you made earlier. Reattach the springs and hardware, ensuring everything is secure.

Step 7 Reinstall the Brake Drum Once the shoes are installed, slide the brake drum back over the shoes. Spin the drum to ensure it moves freely without any obstruction. If it feels tight, you may need to adjust the brake shoes slightly.

Step 8 Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once the wheel is in place, lower the vehicle from the jack stands and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 9 Repeat on the Other Side If you’re replacing the rear brakes on both sides, repeat the same procedure on the other side of the vehicle.

Step 10 Test the Brakes Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure that the brake shoes are properly seated against the drum. This will help restore brake pressure.

Conclusion Installing rear drum brakes is an achievable task for those with basic automotive knowledge and the right tools. Always remember to prioritize safety throughout the process. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. With your new brakes installed, you can feel confident that your vehicle will stop safely and effectively.