Replacing worn or damaged drum brakes is a crucial task for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and safety. While the process may seem daunting, it can be simplified into a series of manageable steps. This guide will provide a comprehensive walkthrough on how to remove drum brakes, empowering you to tackle this task with confidence and efficiency.
Before embarking on the removal process, it is imperative to gather the necessary tools and materials. These include lug wrenches, a jack and jack stands, a screwdriver, a hammer, and gloves. Additionally, a brake cleaner, anti-seize lubricant, and new brake shoes should be acquired. Ensuring you have all the necessary equipment will prevent delays and ensure a smooth removal process.
To begin, the vehicle should be safely parked on a level surface and the parking brake engaged. Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that corresponds to the drum brake you intend to remove. Remember, do not remove the lug nuts entirely at this stage. Next, use a jack to raise the vehicle, ensuring it is securely supported by jack stands. Finally, remove the lug nuts and detach the wheel from the vehicle. With the wheel removed, you can proceed to remove the drum brake.
Safety Precautions
Working on your drum brakes can be a dangerous task if proper safety precautions are not taken. These precautions include:
- Always park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface. If possible, park it in a garage or other enclosed area to protect yourself from the elements.
- Set the parking brake and chock the wheels. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling while you are working on it.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves. This will protect your eyes and hands from flying debris.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts. This will ensure that the lug nuts are properly tightened and that the wheels are securely attached to the vehicle.
- Never remove the drum brake shoes with the vehicle still on the ground. This could cause the brake shoes to fall out and injure you.
- Be aware of the brake fluid. Brake fluid is toxic and can cause skin irritation. Avoid contact with brake fluid, and if you do come into contact with it, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
| Safety Precautions |
|---|
| Park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface. |
| Set the parking brake and chock the wheels. |
| Wear safety glasses and gloves. |
| Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts. |
| Never remove the drum brake shoes with the vehicle still on the ground. |
| Be aware of the brake fluid. |
Preparation and Tool Gathering
Before attempting to remove drum brakes, ensure you have a safe and clutter-free workspace. Gather the necessary tools and materials listed below:
Tools and Materials Required:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Lug wrench | For loosening and tightening lug nuts |
| Drum brake tool | Specialized tool for removing drum brakes |
| C-clamp | For holding the brake shoes in place |
| Hammer | For loosening frozen parts |
| Penetrating oil | For lubricating rusty components |
| Wire brush | For cleaning brake components |
| Safety glasses | For eye protection |
| Gloves | For hand protection |
Additionally, ensure you refer to your vehicle’s specific repair manual for any additional guidelines or safety precautions related to removing drum brakes.
Removing the Drums
To remove the drum brake drums, follow these steps:
1. Support the wheel you are working on with a jack stand.
2. Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
3. Locate the brake drum retaining screws and remove them. There will typically be two or four screws, located around the perimeter of the drum. They may be covered by a rubber plug, which you will need to remove first.
[Detailed steps for removing the brake drum retaining screws:]
- Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the rubber plug out of the hole in the drum.
- Insert a Phillips head screwdriver or socket wrench into the screw and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Once the screw is loose, remove it by hand.
- Repeat this process for the remaining screws.
4. Once the retaining screws are removed, the drum can be pulled off the axle. It may be necessary to use a pry bar or hammer to help break it loose.
5. Inspect the drum for any signs of wear or damage. If the drum is damaged, it should be replaced.
Disconnecting the Brake Lines
Before you disconnect the brake lines, it’s important to take precautions to prevent brake fluid from leaking. Place a drain pan under the brake lines and cover any exposed parts with rags or paper towels. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from brake fluid.
Once you’re ready, use a flare nut wrench or line wrench to loosen the brake line fittings. Be careful not to overtighten the fittings, as this can damage the lines. Once the fittings are loose, you can carefully disconnect the brake lines from the wheel cylinders.
If you’re having trouble disconnecting the brake lines, you can try using penetrating oil to loosen the fittings. Apply the penetrating oil to the fittings and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to loosen them. You may also need to use a pair of pliers to help you break the fittings loose.
Once the brake lines are disconnected, you can remove the drum brakes. Be careful not to damage the brake shoes or other components when you’re removing the drum brakes.
| Brake Line Size | Flare Nut Size |
|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | 10 mm |
| 5/16 inch | 12 mm |
| 3/8 inch | 14 mm |
Removing the Brake Shoes and Springs
To remove the brake shoes and springs, you’ll need a few tools:
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- 10mm socket wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Brake cleaner
Once you have your tools, follow these steps:
- Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on, but don’t remove them completely.
- Jack up the car and secure it on jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
- Locate the two brake shoes and the springs that hold them in place. The springs will be attached to the backing plate and the brake shoes.
There are two types of springs that hold the brake shoes in place:
Type of Spring Location Hold-down springs Attach the brake shoes to the backing plate Return springs Pull the brake shoes back away from the drum when the brake pedal is released To remove the brake shoes, you’ll need to first remove the hold-down springs. Use a screwdriver to pry the springs off the backing plate.
Once the hold-down springs are removed, you can remove the brake shoes. Pull the brake shoes straight back until they come off the backing plate. You may need to use a little force to get them off.
Once the brake shoes are removed, you can remove the return springs. Use a screwdriver to pry the springs off the backing plate.
With the brake shoes and springs removed, you can now inspect them for wear and tear. If the brake shoes are worn down, they will need to be replaced. If the springs are damaged, they will also need to be replaced.
Reattaching the Brake Shoes and Springs
To reattach the brake shoes and springs, follow these steps:
1. Hook the Return Spring
Locate the return spring that holds the top end of the brake shoes together. Hook the spring onto the top of the brake shoe, ensuring it is securely in place.
2. Position the Brake Shoes
Place the brake shoes over the wheel cylinder pistons and align the brake lining with the brake drum. Push the shoes into position, ensuring they are fully engaged with the wheel cylinder.
3. Install the Hold-Down Springs
Take the hold-down springs and locate the slots on the backing plate. Insert the springs into the slots and hook them onto the brake shoes. Hold the springs in place and tighten them using a socket wrench.
4. Install the Adjuster Spring
Locate the adjuster spring and the adjuster lever on the backing plate. Hook the spring onto the lever and pull it towards the top of the brake shoe. Tighten the spring using a socket wrench.
5. Install the Actuator Rod
Connect the actuator rod to the parking brake lever on the backing plate. Ensure the rod is securely fastened and can move freely.
6. Adjusting the Brake Shoes
Using a flathead screwdriver, adjust the star wheel on the adjuster lever. Turn the wheel clockwise to tighten the shoes and counterclockwise to loosen them. Adjust the shoes until they make slight contact with the brake drum. This step is crucial to ensure proper brake engagement and to prevent dragging or squealing.
Adjustment Guide Tighten shoes until they lightly drag on the drum, then back off 1/4 turn.
Reconnecting the Brake Lines
Once the new drum brakes have been installed, the brake lines need to be reconnected. This is a relatively simple process, but it is important to take your time and make sure that the lines are connected correctly. Here are the steps involved:
1. Clean the brake lines
Before you connect the brake lines, it is important to clean them to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this with a brake cleaner or with some rubbing alcohol.
2. Install the brake line fittings
The next step is to install the brake line fittings. These fittings will connect the brake lines to the brake calipers.
3. Tighten the brake line fittings
Once the brake line fittings are installed, you need to tighten them. You can do this with a wrench or a pair of pliers.
4. Bleed the brakes
After the brake lines are connected, you need to bleed the brakes. This will remove any air from the brake lines.
5. Check for leaks
Once the brakes are bled, you need to check for leaks. You can do this by applying pressure to the brake pedal and looking for any leaks.
6. Test the brakes
The final step is to test the brakes. You can do this by driving the car and applying the brakes. Make sure that the brakes work properly before you drive the car on the road.
7. Brake Line Safety Tips
Here are some additional tips for safely reconnecting brake lines:
– Always use new brake lines when replacing old ones.
– Make sure that the brake lines are the correct size for your car.
– Use a torque wrench to tighten the brake line fittings to the proper specification.
– Bleed the brakes thoroughly to remove any air from the system.
– Check for leaks and test the brakes before driving the car.Reinstalling the Drums
Start by lightly coating the inside of the drum with a high-temperature brake grease. This will help prevent the shoes from squeaking and will also help to prolong the life of the brakes. Next, carefully place the drum over the shoes, making sure that the shoes fit snugly into the drum. Once the drum is in place, use the lug nuts to tighten the drum onto the wheel hub. Be sure to tighten the lug nuts evenly, as overtightening can damage the drum or the wheel hub.
Once the drum is tight, you can reinstall the brake line. Connect the brake line to the brake cylinder on the back of the brake drum. Tighten the brake line fitting, but do not overtighten it. Once the brake line is connected, you can bleed the brakes to remove any air from the system.
Adjusting the Brakes
Before driving the vehicle, you will need to adjust the brakes. To do this, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. Then, loosen the brake adjuster nut on the back of the brake drum. Turn the adjuster nut until you feel a slight drag on the brake shoes when you rotate the drum by hand. Once you have adjusted the brakes, tighten the brake adjuster nut.
Testing the Brakes
Before driving the vehicle, test the brakes to make sure they are working properly. To do this, drive the vehicle in a safe area and apply the brakes firmly. The vehicle should come to a smooth, controlled stop. If the vehicle does not stop smoothly, or if the brakes feel spongy, you will need to adjust the brakes further.
Drum Brake Adjustment Table
Symptom Adjustment Brakes are too loose Tighten the brake adjuster nut Brakes are too tight Loosen the brake adjuster nut Brakes are grabbing Adjust the brake shoes so that they are centered in the drum Brakes are squealing Apply a high-temperature brake grease to the inside of the drum Bleed the Brake System
Bleeding the brake system ensures that all air has been removed from the system for proper brake operation. After completing brake repairs, bleeding the brakes is a crucial step to restore full braking capabilities.
Materials Required:
Tool Purpose Bleeder wrench Unscrews the bleeder screw Clear plastic tubing Connects to the bleeder screw to collect brake fluid Bottle or jar Holds the brake fluid Steps:
- Fill the brake fluid reservoir with fresh brake fluid.
- Locate the bleeder screw on each wheel cylinder.
- Attach one end of the plastic tubing to the bleeder screw.
- Submerge the other end of the tubing in a bottle or jar filled with a small amount of brake fluid.
- Have an assistant slowly press down on the brake pedal and release it.
- While your assistant is holding the pedal down, slowly open the bleeder screw.
- Close the bleeder screw once a steady stream of brake fluid is flowing through the tubing.
- Repeat the process for each wheel cylinder, following the correct brake bleeding sequence specified in your vehicle’s repair manual.
- Optional (for advanced users): Use a vacuum-assisted bleeder tool or a pressure bleeder to evacuate air more efficiently from the system. These tools create a suction or force brake fluid through the system, reducing the need for manual pumping. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific operation details.
Final Inspection and Road Testing
1. Check Brake Lines and Hoses
After reconnecting the brake lines, thoroughly inspect them for any leaks or damage. Carefully examine the connections and tighten any loose fittings.
2. Top Up Brake Fluid
Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary. Ensure it reaches the correct level indicated on the master cylinder reservoir.
3. Check Brake Pedal Feel
Pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure in the system. The pedal should feel firm, with minimal sponginess or travel.
4. Test Brake Lights
Activate the brake pedal and ensure that the brake lights function properly. If they do not illuminate, troubleshoot the electrical connections.
5. Check Brake Performance
Take the vehicle for a short test drive and carefully assess brake performance. The brakes should engage smoothly, without any pulling or vibration. If any issues arise, repeat the inspection process or seek professional assistance.
6. Road Test
Conduct a thorough road test to evaluate the overall braking performance. Perform hard braking, emergency stops, and gradual stops to assess pedal feel, stopping distance, and any potential issues.
7. Monitor Brake Temperature
During the road test, monitor brake temperature using an infrared thermometer. Excessive heat buildup can indicate issues with the brake system, such as binding or dragging.
8. Check Wheel Alignment
If the brake work involved removing the wheels, ensure that the wheel alignment is checked and adjusted if necessary. Misalignment can affect brake performance and tire wear.
9. Inspect Brake Pads and Drums
After a few days of driving, visually inspect the brake pads and drums to ensure proper wear and contact. If there is uneven wear or excessive wear, further adjustment or replacement may be required.
10. Follow-Up Checks and Maintenance
Regularly monitor the brake fluid level, check for leaks, and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations during braking. Schedule periodic brake inspections and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety.
How To Remove Drum Brakes
Materials needed:
- Jack or lift
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Duralast brake drum puller (or similar)
- Hammer
- Flathead screwdriver
- Safety glasses
Instructions:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that you are working on, but do not remove them completely.
- Raise the vehicle using a jack or lift and support it with jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
- Locate the brake drum and inspect it for any damage.
- If the brake drum is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
- To remove the brake drum, use a duralast brake drum puller (or similar) to pull it off the axle.
- If the brake drum is stuck, you can tap it with a hammer to loosen it.
- Once the brake drum is removed, you will need to remove the brake shoes.
- To remove the brake shoes, use a flathead screwdriver to pry them off the brake backing plate.
- Once the brake shoes are removed, you can remove the brake hardware.
- To remove the brake hardware, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold it in place.
- Once the brake hardware is removed, you can remove the brake drum assembly from the vehicle.
People Also Ask About How To Remove Drum Brakes
1. What are some of the signs that my drum brakes need to be replaced?
Some of the signs that your drum brakes need to be replaced include:
- Squealing or grinding noises when braking
- A pulsation in the brake pedal
- The brake pedal feels soft or spongy
- The vehicle pulls to one side when braking
2. How often should I have my drum brakes inspected?
You should have your drum brakes inspected at least once a year, or more often if you drive in stop-and-go traffic or in hilly areas.
3. Can I replace my drum brakes myself?
Yes, you can replace your drum brakes yourself if you have the proper tools and skills.
