2014 mitsubishi mirage rear brake drums

Feb . 12, 2025 09:45 Back to list

2014 mitsubishi mirage rear brake drums

Removing brake drums can seem daunting, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with car maintenance. However, with the right approach and knowledge, it's a task that can be accomplished successfully, ensuring your vehicle's braking system remains reliable and safe. Here's a comprehensive guide that combines expertise and trusted practices to help you remove brake drums effectively.

how to remove brake drums

Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools at hand, such as a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a screwdriver, possibly a brake drum puller, and safety goggles. Safety should always be your top priority, so work on a flat surface and make sure the car is securely lifted. First, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you'll be removing the brake drum. Don't remove them entirely yet, as they still need to keep the wheel in place while you raise the vehicle. Once the nuts are loosened, use the jack to lift the car, then secure it with jack stands for added stability.

how to remove brake drums

With the car safely lifted, remove the lug nuts completely and take the wheel off. This exposes the brake drum. Before attempting to remove the brake drum, it is crucial to understand its possible attachment methods. Some brake drums are held in place by screws, others by clips on the wheel studs, and some might just be snugly fitted over the hub. Inspect your setup to determine which situation applies to your vehicle. If the drum is secured by screws, use a screwdriver to remove them carefully. These screws can be rusted or tightly fixed, so applying some penetrating oil might be necessary for ease of removal. If your drum uses clips on wheel studs, use pliers to remove these clips. While they aren't technically necessary for the reassembly process, it's good practice to replace them to maintain the vehicle's original setup. With these restraints removed, try to pull the drum straight out. If it resists, it may be rusted to the hub or the brake shoes might not be fully retracted. In such cases, a rubber mallet can be gently used to tap the drum, working around the edge to loosen any rust holding the drum in place. Take care not to hit it hard enough to damage the drum or the surrounding components.how to remove brake drums
In instances where manual effort doesn't free the drum, a brake drum puller may be required. This tool applies even pressure across the drum, helping to avoid damage. If using a puller, attach it according to the manufacturer's instructions and tighten it slowly, checking constantly to see if the drum begins to move. Once the drum is removed, it's an opportunity to inspect the brake components for wear or damage. Check the brake shoes, adjusters, and springs, ensuring they're in good condition. Any components showing signs of excessive wear or damage should be replaced to maintain optimal brake performance. Remember to clean the hub before reinstalling the drum or a new one. A wire brush can remove rust and debris, ensuring a smooth surface for the drum reattachment. If you're replacing the drum with a new one, clean it with brake cleaner to remove any protective coating applied during manufacturing. Reassembling involves reversing the removal process. Position the drum over the brakes, ensuring it slides over the shoes without difficulty. If your model uses them, replace the screws and clips. Reattach the wheel, hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the car to the ground, and then fully tighten the nuts by alternating in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Engaging in this process not only broadens your automotive expertise but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and trust in your vehicle maintenance abilities. Ultimately, understanding and performing basic car maintenance enhances both vehicle safety and longevity.