Nissan Rear Drum Brake Repair A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to ensuring your vehicle's safety and performance, maintaining the braking system is paramount. For Nissan vehicles equipped with rear drum brakes, understanding how to properly repair and maintain this crucial component can prolong its lifespan and enhance driving safety. This guide will provide you with a detailed overview of rear drum brake repair, including necessary tools, common issues, and a step-by-step repair process.

Understanding Rear Drum Brakes

Rear drum brakes function differently from their disc counterparts. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake shoes expand against the inside of a hollow drum. This creates friction that slows down the vehicle. The enclosed design of drum brakes protects the components from dirt and debris, but this also means they can be prone to certain issues over time.

Common Issues with Rear Drum Brakes

1. Worn Brake Shoes Over time, brake shoes can wear down, resulting in reduced braking performance and increased stopping distances. 2. Drum Warping The heat generated during braking can cause the drum to warp, leading to vibration and noise. 3. Leaking Wheel Cylinders If the wheel cylinders develop leaks, it can lead to a loss of brake fluid and reduced braking efficiency. 4. Poor Adjustment Drum brakes need to be properly adjusted to function effectively. If they are too loose or too tight, performance will suffer.

Tools Required for the Repair

Before starting the repair, ensure you have the following tools on hand

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips) - Brake drum removal tool (if necessary) - Brake cleaner - Safety goggles and gloves - New brake shoes and drums (if replacement is needed) - Torque wrench - C-clamp or brake tool for compression

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Nissan Rear Drum Brakes

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

Start by parking your Nissan on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and disconnect the negative battery cable to ensure safety throughout the repair process.

Step 2 Jack Up the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels using a lug wrench.

Step 3 Remove the Brake Drum

If the brake drum is not easily removed, a brake drum removal tool may be necessary. Inspect the drum for any signs of wear or warping. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Step 4 Inspect the Brake Components

Take a close look at the brake shoes and hardware. If the shoes are worn down to the indicator lines or if there’s evidence of moisture from leaking wheel cylinders, it’s time for a replacement. Additionally, check the springs and adjusters for wear.

Step 5 Replace the Brake Shoes

If replacing the shoes, remove the old ones carefully, noting the configuration of the components. Install the new brake shoes in the reverse order, ensuring that all springs, clips, and adjusters are properly aligned.

Step 6 Adjust the Brake Shoes

Once the new shoes are in place, use a brake tool or C-clamp to compress them to their resting position. Adjust the brake shoes so that they are close, but not touching, the drum. This ensures proper engagement when you press the brake pedal.

Step 7 Reinstall the Brake Drum

Slide the drum back onto the hub. Spin it to ensure there’s no binding or excessive drag, which indicates adjustment might be necessary. Ensure it sits flush against the brake shoes.

Step 8 Reinstall the Wheels

Place the wheels back onto the hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once both wheels are in place, lower the vehicle, and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 9 Test the Brakes

Before taking the vehicle back on the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake shoes are seated properly. Test drive the vehicle at low speeds to ensure optimal braking performance.

Conclusion

Repairing rear drum brakes on a Nissan vehicle may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be a straightforward process. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are vital for ensuring your brake system functions effectively, providing both safety and performance on the road. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions and recommendations related to your Nissan model. If at any point you feel uncertain, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a professional mechanic.