Changing Brake Drums and Shoes A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is crucial for safety and performance. One of the key components of this system is the brake drum and shoes, which are essential for effective braking in drum brake systems. Over time, these components can wear down, leading to reduced braking efficiency and increased stopping distances. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing brake drums and shoes, ensuring you can perform this maintenance task safely and effectively.

Understanding Brake Drums and Shoes

Brake drums are the circular metal components that rotate with your vehicle's wheels. As you press the brake pedal, the brake shoes, which are curved pieces made of friction material, are pushed against the inner surface of the drum. This friction slows down and eventually stops the wheel’s motion. Over time, these components can become worn, cracked, or glazed, which may lead to poor braking performance, noises, or even brake failure.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin changing your brake drums and shoes, gather the necessary tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - New brake drums and shoes - Brake cleaner - Torque wrench - Screwdriver - C-clamp or brake spring tool - Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation Park your vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake. Gather all tools and materials, and ensure you are wearing safety gear.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts Using a lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you will be working on without removing them completely.

3. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to lift the vehicle and securely hold it in place with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

4. Remove the Brake Drum If the brake drum is difficult to remove, use a brake drum puller. Inspect the drum for any signs of wear or damage. If the surface is cracked or excessively worn, it’s time to replace it.

5. Take Off the Old Shoes Locate the springs that hold the brake shoes in place. Carefully remove these springs using a C-clamp or brake spring tool. Once the springs are removed, take out the old brake shoes.

6. Clean the Assembly Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the brake assembly, removing any dust, debris, or grease.

7. Install New Brake Shoes Position the new brake shoes into place and reattach the springs. Make sure the shoes are oriented correctly, with the larger shoe typically going on the rear side.

8. Replace the Brake Drum Once the shoes are installed, slide the new brake drum over them. Ensure it fits snugly and rotates freely.

9. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack and remove the jack stands.

10. Tighten Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is firmly on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

11. Test the Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brake shoes seat correctly against the drum. Once everything is secure, take the vehicle for a test drive to confirm proper functioning.

Conclusion

Changing brake drums and shoes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and careful attention to detail, you can perform this maintenance task yourself. Keeping your braking system in top condition is essential for safe driving. If you’re ever unsure about your ability to change brake components, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Regularly inspecting your brakes can prevent unexpected failures and ensure your vehicle stops as intended.