how to remove rear brake drum

Dec . 30, 2024 08:15 Back to list

how to remove rear brake drum

How to Remove a Rear Brake Drum A Step-by-Step Guide

Removing a rear brake drum might seem like a daunting task if you’re not familiar with basic automotive maintenance, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can do it yourself. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that you approach this task safely and efficiently.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials

1. Jack and Jack Stands To elevate your vehicle safely. 2. Lug Wrench For loosening the wheel nuts. 3. Brake Drum Puller This tool is essential if the drum is stuck. 4. Screwdriver For removing screws (if applicable). 5. Brake Cleaner To clean any brake components. 6. Safety Glasses and Gloves Always prioritize safety.

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

Begin by ensuring your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly before lifting the vehicle, as this makes it easier to remove the wheels once the car is elevated.

Step 2 Raise the Vehicle

Using the jack, lift the rear of the vehicle. Once it is high enough, place jack stands beneath the vehicle’s frame to secure it. Never rely solely on the jack when working under the vehicle.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the rear wheel to expose the brake drum. Make sure to keep the lug nuts in a safe place as you will need them later.

Step 4 Inspect the Brake Drum

Before attempting to remove the drum, check for any visible damage or wear. If you notice any issues with the shoes or other components, take note as you may need to replace them too.

how to remove rear brake drum

Step 5 Remove the Brake Drum

The brake drum can sometimes be stubborn due to rust or wear. If the drum pulls off easily, great! However, if it doesn’t budge, follow these steps

1. Check for Retaining Screws Some drums have screws that need to be removed. If there are screws, use a screwdriver to remove them. 2. Adjust the Brake Shoes If the shoes are pressed against the drum, you can usually find an adjustment wheel or notch that allows you to reduce the tension on the shoes. This is often accessible through a hole in the backing plate. 3. Use a Brake Drum Puller If the drum still won’t move, use a brake drum puller. Attach the puller to the drum following the provided instructions and apply gentle pressure to pull the drum off. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components.

Step 6 Clean and Inspect

Once the drum has been removed, take the opportunity to clean the area. Use brake cleaner to remove dust and debris from the drum assembly. While cleaning, inspect the brake shoes, springs, and other components for wear or damage. Replace any worn parts as necessary.

Step 7 Reinstallation

When you're ready to reinstall the drum, simply reverse the removal process. If you are replacing the drum or shoes, make sure everything is lined up properly. Once everything is in place, put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

Step 8 Lower the Vehicle

Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands. Once the vehicle is on the ground, use a lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts securely in a crisscross pattern.

Step 9 Test Your Brakes

Before you drive off, gently press the brake pedal a few times to seat the brake shoes against the drum. This ensures everything is functioning properly. Then, take the vehicle for a short test drive to confirm that the brakes are working as expected.

Conclusion

Removing a rear brake drum is a straightforward process that can save you time and money if done correctly. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can tackle this maintenance task confidently. Remember always to prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic if you encounter any issues.