Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is essential for ensuring safe driving. Among the crucial components are the rear brake shoes, which play a vital role in decelerating your car. If you suspect that your rear brake shoes require replacement, tackling this task yourself can save you both time and money. With proper preparation and attention to detail, replacing rear brake shoes is a relatively straightforward automotive repair project that can be accomplished in your own garage or driveway. Embark on this guide to learn the step-by-step process involved in replacing rear brake shoes, empowering you to ensure the optimal performance and safety of your vehicle.
Before embarking on the replacement process, it’s imperative to gather the necessary tools and materials. These include new rear brake shoes, a jack and jack stands, wheel chocks, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, a brake spring tool, and a brake cleaner. Safety should always be a top priority when working on your vehicle. Park it on a flat, stable surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the front wheels to prevent movement. Additionally, wear safety glasses and gloves throughout the process.
Start by loosening the lug nuts on the rear wheels but do not remove them completely. Then, using a jack, carefully raise the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and detach the rear wheels. Next, locate the brake drum and remove the two bolts holding it in place. Pull the drum straight toward you to detach it from the wheelbase. Now, you have access to the brake shoes. Using a C-clamp, compress the brake shoe springs and remove the old brake shoes. Thoroughly clean the brake drum and backing plate with brake cleaner before installing the new brake shoes. Slide the new shoes into place and secure them with the brake springs. Reassemble the brake drum, wheels, and lug nuts, tightening them to the manufacturer’s specifications. Lower the vehicle, remove the jack stands, and torque the lug nuts to the correct tightness.
How To Replace Rear Brake Shoes
Replacing rear brake shoes is a relatively simple task that can be completed in an afternoon. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of having a mechanic do the job.
1. **Gather your tools and materials.** You will need a jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket wrench, screwdriver, and new brake shoes.
2. **Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.**
3. **Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels, but do not remove them completely.**
4. **Place the jack under the rear axle and raise the car until the wheels are off the ground.**
5. **Remove the lug nuts and wheels.**
6. **Locate the brake shoes inside the brake drum.**
7. **Use a screwdriver to remove the springs that hold the brake shoes in place.**
8. **Carefully pull the brake shoes away from the brake drum.**
9. **Clean the brake drum and the new brake shoes with brake cleaner.**
10. **Install the new brake shoes into the brake drum.**
11. **Replace the springs that hold the brake shoes in place.**
12. **Reinstall the wheels and lug nuts.**
13. **Lower the car to the ground and tighten the lug nuts.**
14. **Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the new brake shoes.**
15. **Test the brakes by driving the car slowly in a safe area.**
People Also Ask About How To Replace Rear Brake Shoes
What are the symptoms of worn brake shoes?
The symptoms of worn brake shoes include:
- Squealing or grinding noises when braking
- Reduced braking power
- Brake pedal pulsation
- Uneven brake wear
How often should I replace my brake shoes?
Brake shoes should be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, or as needed.
Can I replace my brake shoes myself?
Yes, you can replace your brake shoes yourself if you have the proper tools and knowledge. However, if you are not comfortable working on your car, it is best to have a mechanic do the job.
