How to Remove the Rear Brake Drum on Your Vehicle for Maintenance

Jul . 12, 2024 11:48 Back to list

How to Remove the Rear Brake Drum on Your Vehicle for Maintenance

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one crucial aspect that should not be overlooked is the brake system. The brakes are essential for ensuring the safety of both the driver and passengers, as they are responsible for bringing the vehicle to a stop. One common maintenance task that may need to be performed on a vehicle is removing the rear brake drum. The rear brake drum is a vital component of the drum brake system, which is still used on many vehicles today. The drum brake system consists of brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and the brake drum. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure is applied to the wheel cylinder, causing the brake shoes to press against the inner surface of the brake drum, resulting in the vehicle slowing down or coming to a stop. Over time, the rear brake drum may become worn out or develop grooves, causing a decrease in braking performance. When this happens, it is necessary to remove the rear brake drum for inspection and possible replacement. To remove the rear brake drum, you will need some basic tools and a little bit of mechanical know-how. Here are the general steps to follow 1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. 2. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels with a lug wrench, but do not remove them completely. 3. Elevate the rear of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands for safety. 4. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the rear wheels. 5

removing rear brake drum. Locate the rear brake drum and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. 6. Look for the access hole on the rear of the brake drum and loosen the brake adjuster to release the tension on the brake shoes. 7. Once the tension is released, carefully pull the brake drum off the wheel hub. You may need to tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it if it is stuck. 8. Inspect the brake drum for any signs of wear, such as grooves or cracks. If the brake drum is damaged, it will need to be replaced. 9. Inspect the brake shoes for wear and replace them if necessary. 10. Reassemble the brake components in the reverse order of removal, making sure everything is properly tightened and adjusted. Removing the rear brake drum is a relatively straightforward task, but it is essential to take your time and pay attention to detail to ensure the job is done correctly. If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it is always best to seek the help of a professional mechanic to avoid any potential safety hazards on the road. Remember, properly functioning brakes are crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.