Steps to Change Rear Brake Drums and Shoes Efficiently and Safely

Nov . 18, 2024 15:24 Back to list

Steps to Change Rear Brake Drums and Shoes Efficiently and Safely

How to Replace Rear Brake Drums and Shoes

Replacing rear brake drums and shoes is a crucial maintenance task for ensuring your vehicle’s braking system functions properly. Although it can be a challenging job, with the right tools and some patience, you can perform this task at home. This guide will help you understand the steps involved in replacing your vehicle's rear brake drums and shoes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Replacement brake drums and shoes - Drum brake tool kit or a flathead screwdriver - Torque wrench - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Preparing Your Vehicle

1. Park on a Level Surface Ensure your vehicle is on a flat surface and turn off the ignition. 2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels while the vehicle is still on the ground. Do not remove them yet. 3. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Once raised, place jack stands under the rear axle for safety. 4. Remove the Wheels Now, proceed to remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels to access the brake drums.

Step 2 Removing the Brake Drums

1. Inspect the Drums Check for any visible cracks or damage. If they look worn, it’s advisable to replace them. 2. Remove the Drum If the drum does not slide off easily, you may need to tap it gently with a hammer or use a brake drum puller. Ensure you wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

Step 3 Replacing the Brake Shoes

how to replace rear brake drums and shoes

1. Access the Brake Shoes Once the drum is removed, you will see the brake shoes. Observe how they are positioned and take a picture for reference if needed. 2. Remove the Old Shoes Carefully remove the springs and clips using your brake tool kit or screwdriver. Take your time to avoid damaging any components. 3. Install New Shoes Place the new brake shoes in the same configuration as the old ones. Ensure they fit snugly and that the spring assembly is properly attached.

Step 4 Reinstalling the Brake Drums

1. Clean the Drums Use brake cleaner to remove any dust or debris from the new or old drums before reinstalling. 2. Reattach the Drums Slide the brake drums back onto the shoes. Ensure they rotate freely.

Step 5 Reassembling the Wheels

1. Reinstall the Wheels Place the wheels back onto the hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts. 2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. 3. Tighten the Lug Nuts Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications in a crisscross pattern.

Step 6 Final Checks

Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brake shoes are seated properly. Test the brakes at low speed to confirm that everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear brake drums and shoes is a straightforward process that can be accomplished by anyone with basic mechanical skills. By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can enhance your vehicle's performance and extend the life of your braking system. Remember to consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions related to your car model. Happy driving!