Guide to Replacing and Adjusting Brake Drums on Your Vehicle

Oct . 22, 2024 00:39 Back to list

Guide to Replacing and Adjusting Brake Drums on Your Vehicle

How to Change Brake Drums A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing brake drums is an essential skill for any DIY car enthusiast. The process can save you money on labor costs and provide a sense of accomplishment. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to replace your vehicle's brake drums safely and effectively.

Understanding Brake Drums

Before delving into the process of changing brake drums, it’s important to understand their function. Brake drums are part of a drum brake system, which is used to slow down or stop your vehicle. They consist of a cylindrical component that rotates with the wheel and brake shoes that press against the drum to create friction. Over time, these components can wear down, leading to reduced braking performance or even failure.

Tools and Materials Required

Before starting the job, gather the following tools and materials

1. Jack and Jack Stands To lift the vehicle safely. 2. Lug Wrench For removing the wheel lug nuts. 3. Brake Drum Puller Helpful for removing stubborn drums. 4. Replacement Brake Drums Ensure you have the correct size and type for your vehicle. 5. Brake Cleaner To clean the components. 6. Wrenches and Socket Set For any necessary disassembly. 7. Protective Gear Gloves and safety glasses are recommended.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation

Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, turn off the ignition, and engage the parking brake. For additional safety, place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re working on the front brakes.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the vehicle from the ground. Once elevated, secure it with jack stands. Never rely solely on the jack for support.

3. Remove the Wheel

Using a lug wrench, loosen and remove the lug nuts on the wheel covering the brake drum. Once the nuts are removed, take off the wheel and set it aside.

4. Inspect the Brake Assembly

how to change brake drums

Before replacing the drum, take a moment to inspect the brake assembly. Check the brake shoes for wear, and examine any other components for damage. If the shoes appear worn down, consider replacing them as well.

5. Remove the Brake Drum

In many cases, the brake drum will slide off easily. However, if it’s stuck, you might need to use a brake drum puller for assistance. Be sure to apply even pressure when using the puller to avoid damage. If the drum is badly scored or damaged, it’s essential to replace it.

6. Clean the Area

Once the drum is removed, use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the brake assembly and the new drum. This step is crucial to ensure the new drum and shoes function correctly.

7. Install the New Drum

Carefully slide the new brake drum onto the wheel hub. Ensure it fits securely and rotates freely without obstruction. This is also a good time to inspect the wheel bearings and grease them if necessary.

8. Replace the Shoes (if necessary)

If you are replacing brake shoes, now is the time to do that. Remove the old shoes, noting how they are positioned. Install the new shoes, ensuring all springs and retainers are correctly positioned.

9. Reattach the Wheel

Once everything is back in place, reattach the wheel. Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle slightly to put weight on the wheel before you fully tighten the nuts. Use a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.

10. Test the Brakes

Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle completely. Start the car and pump the brakes a few times to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Take the car for a short test drive, listening for any unusual noises and testing the brakes' responsiveness.

Conclusion

Changing brake drums may seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a little patience, it can be accomplished successfully. Ensure you follow each step carefully, and don't hesitate to consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions related to your model. Regular maintenance of your braking system is crucial for safety, so don’t overlook this important task. Happy wrenching!