how to remove rear brake drum

Oct . 06, 2024 06:40 Back to list

how to remove rear brake drum

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

Removing a rear brake drum can be a straightforward task if you have the right tools and knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Brake drums are crucial components of your vehicle's braking system, and accessing the brake shoes inside may be necessary for inspection or replacement.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, ensure you have the following tools

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - Screwdriver - Pliers - Hammer - Brake cleaner - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Park on a Flat Surface Make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface to avoid any movement. 2. Engage the Parking Brake This helps prevent the vehicle from rolling while you work. 3. Loosen Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel you’ll be working on, but do not remove them completely.

Step 2 Raise the Vehicle

1. Use a Jack Place the jack under the designated jacking point and lift the rear of the vehicle. 2. Secure with Jack Stands Once elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle for safety.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

1. Finish Removing Lug Nuts Now that the vehicle is securely lifted, remove the lag nuts completely and take off the wheel. 2. Inspect the Components Take a moment to inspect the brake components visible.

how to remove rear brake drum

Step 4 Remove the Brake Drum

1. Inspect for Retaining Screws Some brake drums have retaining screws holding them in place. Check and remove these if applicable. 2. Attempt to Slide Off the Drum Gently pull the drum towards you. If it doesn’t slide off easily, it may be stuck due to rust or wear. 3. Use a Hammer Lightly tap around the perimeter of the drum with a hammer to break any corrosion that might be holding it. Be careful not to damage the drum. 4. Use a Brake Drum Puller If the drum still won’t budge, a brake drum puller can be employed. Attach it to the drum and turn the handle, which will apply even pressure to pull the drum off.

Step 5 Inspect the Brake Components

Once the drum is removed, take the time to inspect the brake shoes, springs, and other components inside. Look for wear or damage and determine if replacements are necessary.

Step 6 Reassembly

1. Replace or Repair as Needed If you're changing the brake shoes or making repairs, do so before proceeding. 2. Reinstall the Brake Drum Slide the drum back on (make sure it’s seated properly) and reinstall any retaining screws you removed earlier. 3. Reattach the Wheel Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts at this stage. 4. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

Step 7 Finalize

1. Tighten the Lug Nuts With the vehicle on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. 2. Check Your Work Finally, double-check that everything is secure and properly tightened.

Conclusion

Removing a rear brake drum may seem daunting initially, but with the right tools and careful attention to detail, it can be accomplished rather easily. Always prioritize safety, and don't hesitate to consult a professional if you encounter any issues. Regular maintenance of your braking system is essential for smooth and safe driving.