Removing the rear brake drum from a Mitsubishi Canter can seem daunting, especially if you have limited mechanical experience. Fortunately, the process is straightforward when approached with careful attention to detail and safety. Mastering this task not only enhances your vehicle maintenance skills but also extends the lifespan of your vehicle’s braking system, ensuring safer driving conditions.

Before getting started, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a tire iron, jack stands, wheel chocks, a socket set, a rubber mallet, penetrating oil, and potentially a brake drum puller, depending on the drum’s condition. Wearing safety glasses and gloves is advisable to protect yourself from debris and chemicals. Start by ensuring the vehicle is on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement, and place wheel chocks around the front wheels for additional security. Using a tire iron, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels—but do not remove them yet.

Next, utilize a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Position jack stands beneath the vehicle’s axle to secure it in place. Once adequately stabilized, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels to access the brake drums. To prepare the brake drum for removal, spray penetrating oil around the hub area and lug studs. This step aids in loosening potential rust and debris that can adhere the drum to the axle. Allow the oil to penetrate for a few minutes for maximal effect. Assess the drum for wear and seating. If the drum appears seized, a rubber mallet can assist in breaking it free. Gently tap around the outer edge, avoiding sharp impacts that could damage components. Should the drum remain immovable, employing a brake drum puller may be necessary to create additional leverage.mitsubishi canter rear brake drum removal
If the brake drum shows resistance due to internal tension from the brake shoes, locate the drum’s adjustment slot, which is typically on the backing plate’s rear. Using a brake adjuster tool, turn the star wheel to retract the brake shoes, reducing pressure on the drum. Be mindful of the star wheel’s direction to ensure it loosens rather than tightens. Upon successful removal, inspect the brake drum and shoes for signs of wear or damage. If the drum displays significant scoring or substantial wear, replacement is recommended. Similarly, if the brake shoes exhibit excessive wear, replacing them will enhance braking performance and safety. Before reassembly, clean the drum’s interior surface using brake cleaner, ensuring the absence of grease or debris. After cleaning, reverse the removal process, starting by adjusting the brake shoes back to their proper alignment with the star wheel, ensuring a snug fit without overtightening. Reattach the wheel, tightening the lug nuts by hand initially and securing them with a torque wrench once the vehicle is lowered to the ground. This step guarantees even distribution and prevents wheel warping. Finally, remove the wheel chocks, disengage the parking brake, and test the brakes at low speed to confirm proper function and adjustment. Regular maintenance of the brake system, including periodic inspections and replacements when needed, is paramount for ensuring safety and longevity. By mastering the removal and inspection process of the Mitsubishi Canter's rear brake drum, you prove not only your mechanical prowess but also establish a commitment to vehicle safety and dependability. Becoming proficient in these tasks can also reinforce your credibility as an authoritative figure in automotive maintenance—whether for personal satisfaction or professional advancement. Remember, when in doubt, consulting the vehicle’s service manual or seeking advice from a qualified mechanic can provide additional reassurance and guidance. As with any automotive maintenance, patience and precision are key components to success.