Guidelines for Installing and Maintaining Drum Brakes on Your Vehicle

How to Do Drum Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a common type of braking system found in many vehicles, particularly older models and some lighter vehicles today. Understanding how to maintain and replace drum brakes is crucial for any vehicle owner who wants to ensure their car remains safe and reliable on the road. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of drum brakes, their components, and a step-by-step guide to servicing them.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Drum brakes operate on a principle similar to that of a standard bicycle brake. When you press the brake pedal in your car, hydraulic fluid travels through the brake lines and pushes the brake shoes against the inner surface of a drum, creating friction that slows down or stops the vehicle. This system is generally simpler and less expensive than disc brakes, making it a popular choice for many manufacturers.

Components of Drum Brakes

Before diving into the servicing process, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the main components of drum brakes

1. Brake Drum The cylindrical part that rotates with the wheel. It is made of cast iron or aluminum, and its inner surface is where the brake shoes make contact. 2. Brake Shoes Curved friction materials that press against the inside of the drum to create stopping power.

3. Wheel Cylinder A hydraulic cylinder that pushes the brake shoes apart when the brake pedal is pressed.

4. Return Springs Springs that pull the brake shoes back into place when the brake pedal is released.

5. Adjuster A mechanism that helps to set the correct distance between the brake shoes and the drum.

Tools Needed for Servicing Drum Brakes

Before starting the service, gather the following tools

- Socket set - Wrench set - Brake cleaner - Brake shoe replacement kit (if necessary) - Drum removal tool (if required) - Safety goggles and gloves - Torque wrench

Step-by-Step Guide to Servicing Drum Brakes

Step 1 Preparing Your Vehicle

1. Safety First Ensure the car is on a flat surface. Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels if you’re working on the rear brakes, or vice versa. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before lifting the vehicle, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on.

3. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the vehicle and securely place jack stands under the vehicle for safety.

4. Remove the Wheel Take off the lug nuts completely and remove the wheel to access the drum brakes.

1. Visual Inspection Check the brake drum for cracks, deep grooves, or excessive wear. If you notice any severe damage, the drum may need to be replaced.

2. Removing the Drum If the drum does not slide off easily, you may need to use a drum puller. After removing the drum, inspect the brake shoes and other components for wear and damage.

Step 3 Replacing Brake Shoes (if necessary)

1. Remove Old Brake Shoes Disconnect the return springs and the adjuster. Replace the old brake shoes with new ones, ensuring they are positioned correctly.

2. Reattach Components Reattach the return springs and adjuster. Ensure everything is securely connected and functions properly.

Step 4 Reinstalling the Drum

1. Check Drum Cleanliness Clean the inside of the drum with brake cleaner to remove any old dust and debris.

2. Reinstall the Drum Place the drum back onto the wheel hub, ensuring it fits snugly.

Step 5 Reassembling the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On Install the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle Gently lower the car off the jack stands.

3. Tighten Lug Nuts Finish tightening the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even distribution of pressure.

Step 6 Final Checks

1. Pump the Brake Pedal Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake shoes seat correctly against the drum.

2. Test Drive Take the vehicle for a short test drive to check the braking performance and ensure everything is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Servicing drum brakes may seem daunting initially, but with the right tools and a methodical approach, it can be an achievable task for any car enthusiast. Regular maintenance and prompt replacements will extend the life of your braking system and ensure safety on the road. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. Happy braking!