How to Replace Rear Brake Drums and Shoes

Replacing the rear brake drums and shoes is an essential task for maintaining your vehicle’s braking system. Over time, the brake components wear down, which can affect your vehicle's performance and safety. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have a clear understanding of how to replace these critical parts.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials

- New brake drums - New brake shoes - Brake cleaner - A lug wrench - A jack and jack stands - A socket set - A brake shoe tool (optional but helpful) - Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Preparation

1. Safety First Park your vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety glasses and gloves. This will protect you from debris and sharp edges.

2. Loosen Lug Nuts Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear tires while the vehicle is still on the ground. Do not remove them yet.

3. Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle off the ground, and secure it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before working underneath it.

4. Remove the Rear Wheels Completely remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the rear wheels. Set them aside in a safe place.

Step 2 Remove the Brake Drums

1. Inspect the Drums Before proceeding, visually inspect the brake drums for any scoring or damage. If they appear worn, you'll want to replace them.

2. Detach the Drums If the drums have retaining screws, remove them using a socket and ratchet. If they are stuck, you can gently tap the drum with a hammer to dislodge it.

3. Remove the Drum Once detached, carefully pull the drum straight off the wheel hub. If the drum won’t come off easily, check for any additional retaining clips or springs that may need to be removed.

Step 3 Replace the Brake Shoes

1. Remove Old Shoes With the drum removed, you will have access to the brake shoes. Take note of how the old shoes are positioned, which will help with the installation of the new ones. Use a socket set to remove any bolts securing the shoes.

2. Detach the Springs Carefully unhook the springs connecting the brake shoes. A brake shoe tool or pliers can be helpful here. Make sure not to damage the springs, as you may reuse them.

3. Install the New Shoes Place the new brake shoes in the same position as the old ones. Secure them with bolts and make sure all springs are properly attached.

Step 4 Reattach the Brake Drums

1. Clean the Drums Before installing the new drums, use brake cleaner to clean both the inside of the drum and the surface of the wheel hub.

2. Install New Drums Slide the new brake drums over the newly installed shoes. Make sure they fit snugly without forcing them.

3. Secure with Screws If applicable, reinsert any retaining screws that hold the drum in place.

Step 5 Reassemble and Test

1. Reattach the Wheels Place the rear wheels back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

3. Tighten Lug Nuts Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even distribution.

4. Test Your Brakes Start your vehicle and gently pump the brakes a few times. This will help seat the new shoes against the drums. Test your brakes at a low speed to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear brake drums and shoes is a satisfying and rewarding task that ultimately enhances your vehicle's braking efficiency. Regular maintenance of your brake system not only prolongs the life of your vehicle but also ensures your safety on the road. If you're ever unsure about any part of the process, consult a professional mechanic.