Drum brakes are a common type of brake found on cars and other vehicles. They consist of a rotating drum that is attached to the wheel, and a set of brake shoes that press against the inside of the drum to slow or stop the vehicle.
There are times when it may be necessary to remove a drum brake, such as when replacing the brake shoes or repairing the drum itself. Removing a drum brake can be a relatively simple task, but it is important to follow the correct steps to avoid damaging the brake components. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to remove a drum brake safely and effectively.
Before beginning, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a lug wrench, a jack, a jack stand, a hammer, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of removing the drum brake.
Safety Precautions
Before you begin working on your drum brakes, it’s important to take some safety precautions to protect yourself and your vehicle.
First, make sure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and that the parking brake is engaged. This will help to prevent your vehicle from rolling while you are working on it.
Next, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools for the job. This includes a socket wrench, a torque wrench, a flathead screwdriver, and a hammer. Once you have all of your tools, you can begin the process of removing the drum brakes.
It’s also important to wear safety glasses and gloves when working on your brakes. This will help to protect you from brake dust and other hazardous materials.
Additional Safety Tips
- Never work on your brakes while the vehicle is running
- Always use the proper tools for the job
- If you are not comfortable working on your brakes, it is best to take your vehicle to a mechanic
By following these safety precautions, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and successful experience when removing your drum brakes.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Socket wrench | Used to remove the lug nuts and bolts that hold the drum in place |
| Torque wrench | Used to tighten the lug nuts and bolts to the proper torque |
| Flathead screwdriver | Used to pry the brake shoes away from the drum |
| Hammer | Used to tap the brake drum loose if it is stuck |
Materials Required
1. Safety Glasses
2. Jack Stands
3. Lug Wrench
4. Brake Cleaner
5. Brake Line Wrench
6. Drum Brake Tool
7. Gloves
8. Torque Wrench
Disconnecting the Brake Lines and Removing the Drums
Once the wheel is removed, you will need to disconnect the brake line. To do this, use a brake line wrench to loosen the brake line from the wheel cylinder. Once the brake line is disconnected, you can remove the brake drum.
To remove the brake drum, insert the drum brake tool into the slot on the back of the brake drum. Turn the drum brake tool clockwise to remove the brake drum from the axle.
| Safety Precautions |
|---|
| -Always wear safety glasses when working on your vehicle. -Use jack stands to support the vehicle while you are working on it. -Never work on a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. -Be careful not to damage the brake lines when you are disconnecting them. -Always torque the lug nuts to the proper specifications when you are reassembling the wheel. -Never drive a vehicle with a brake system that is not working properly. |
Removing the Wheel
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you are removing, but do not remove them completely.
3. Raise the vehicle using a jack and place a jack stand under the frame for safety.
4. Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheel straight off the axle.
Removing the Drum
1. Remove the cotter pin from the castle nut on the spindle.
2. Use a socket wrench to loosen the castle nut, but do not remove it completely.
3. Grip the brake drum with both hands and pull it straight off the spindle. The drum may be stuck, so you may need to use a rubber mallet to gently tap it loose.
| Drum Brake Types | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Leading-shoe type | Pull the drum straight off the spindle. |
| Trailing-shoe type | Rotate the drum slightly until the brake shoes clear the backing plate, then pull the drum straight off the spindle. |
Inspecting the Brake Drum
1. Once the drum is removed, inspect it for any signs of wear or damage.
2. Check the inside of the drum for any scoring or grooving.
3. Check the brake shoes for any signs of wear or contamination.
4. If any of the components are worn or damaged, they should be replaced.
Removing the Drum Brake Adjuster
Step 5: Remove the adjuster screw(s)
The adjuster screw(s) are typically located on the back of the brake plate and are used to adjust the brake shoes. To remove the adjuster screw(s), you will need to use a flathead screwdriver or a brake adjuster tool.
For single-adjuster brakes:
| Description | Removel Instructions |
|---|---|
| Star wheel adjuster | Push the adjusting lever away from the brake backing plate and remove the star wheel using a flathead screwdriver. |
| Eccentric adjuster | Turn the adjusting nut counterclockwise using a brake spoon wrench or a flathead screwdriver. |
For self-adjusting brakes:
Self-adjusting brake adjusters do not have screws that need to be removed. Instead, they work automatically to adjust the brake shoes as they wear.
Disassembling the Backing Plate
With the drum and hub assembly removed, you can now disassemble the backing plate.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start by removing the brake shoes. They are typically held in place by springs or clips. Use a screwdriver or pliers to carefully remove them.
- Next, remove the wheel cylinder. It is usually bolted to the backing plate. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts and carefully remove the wheel cylinder.
- Now, remove the parking brake cable. It is usually attached to the backing plate with a bracket or clip. Use a wrench or pliers to carefully remove the bracket or clip and disconnect the cable.
- Next, remove the axle shaft. It is held in place by a nut or bolt. Use a wrench to loosen the nut or bolt and carefully remove the axle shaft.
- Finally, remove the backing plate. It is usually bolted to the axle housing. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts and carefully remove the backing plate.
- Inspect the backing plate for any signs of wear, damage or corrosion. Check the flange where it mates with the axle housing. If the flange is worn or damaged, it may need to be replaced. Also, look for any cracks or bends in the backing plate. If the backing plate is cracked or bent, it will need to be replaced.
Before reassembling the drum brake system, it is important to clean and inspect all of the components. This will help to ensure that the system is working properly and safely.
Removing the Drum Brake Shoes
Step 7: Unhooking the Spring Tension
Once the cotter pins are removed, you’ll need to carefully disengage the springs that hold the shoes in place. There are typically two types of springs: hold-down springs and return springs.
To release the hold-down springs, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the loops of the spring away from the brake shoes. Be cautious not to damage the springs or the shoes.
The return springs attach to the brake shoes and the backing plate. To disconnect them, simply use a pair of pliers to squeeze the spring loops and release them from the hooks or pins on the backing plate.
Remember, the tension of the springs can still cause the shoes to jump when released, so take extra care. Once the springs are unhooked, you can gently pull the brake shoes away from the backing plate and remove them.
| Type of Spring | Action |
|---|---|
| Hold-Down Spring | Keeps brake shoes in contact with drum |
| Return Spring | Returns brake shoes to their resting position |
Brake Adjustment
If you’re experiencing any issues with your drum brakes, it’s important to adjust them properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface: Ensure the parking brake is engaged.
2. Locate the brake adjuster: The brake adjuster is typically located on the back of the brake backing plate.
3. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the adjuster slot: Turn the adjuster clockwise to tighten the brakes or counterclockwise to loosen them.
4. Adjust the brakes until there is a slight drag when the wheel is turned by hand: The wheel should not lock up.
5. Check the brake fluid level: If it’s low, top it up.
6. Test the brakes: Drive the vehicle at a low speed and apply the brakes gently. They should feel firm and responsive.
7. Re-check the brake adjustment and fluid level: After driving for a short distance, re-check the brake adjustment and fluid level to ensure everything is operating correctly.
Wheel Cylinder Inspection
If you notice any leaks or damage to the wheel cylinder, it will need to be replaced. Here’s how to inspect the wheel cylinder:
| Check | Steps |
|---|---|
| Leaks | Examine the wheel cylinder for any signs of fluid leaks or stains. |
| Damage | Inspect the wheel cylinder for any cracks, dents, or other damage. |
| Seals | Check the rubber seals on the wheel cylinder for any signs of wear or damage. |
If you find any issues with the wheel cylinder, it’s recommended to replace it to ensure proper brake functionality.
Final Inspection
Once you have reassembled the brake components, it’s crucial to conduct a final inspection to ensure proper functionality and safety. Here are the key steps involved in the final inspection:
10. Comprehensive Visual Inspection
Thoroughly inspect the entire brake assembly for any loose or incorrectly installed components. Ensure that all bolts, nuts, and screws are properly tightened and secure. Check for any signs of damage or wear on the brake shoes, drums, or other components. If you notice any issues, address them promptly.
| Item | Inspection Criteria |
|---|---|
| Brake shoes | Inspect for wear, cracks, or contamination |
| Brake drums | Check for scoring, wear, or overheating |
| Springs and clips | Ensure proper tension and secure attachment |
| Wheel cylinders | Look for leaks or damage to the housing |
How to Take a Drum Brake Off
Drum brakes are a type of automotive brake that uses a rotating drum to apply friction to a stationary brake shoe, slowing or stopping the vehicle. Drum brakes are generally less effective than disc brakes, but they are also less expensive and easier to maintain. If you need to take a drum brake off, follow these steps:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that you will be working on, but do not remove them.
- Jack up the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
- Remove the cotter pin from the castle nut on the brake drum.
- Loosen the castle nut, but do not remove it.
- Use a drum brake puller to pull the brake drum off of the axle.
- Once the brake drum is off, you can disconnect the brake line from the wheel cylinder.
- Remove the brake shoes from the backing plate.
- Inspect the brake shoes and replace them if necessary.
- Reassemble the brake in reverse order.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my drum brakes need to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your drum brakes may need to be replaced, including:
- Squealing or grinding noises when you brake
- A decrease in braking power
- A pulsating feeling in the brake pedal
- Leaking brake fluid
- Worn or cracked brake shoes
How much does it cost to replace drum brakes?
The cost of replacing drum brakes will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for parts and labor.
Can I replace drum brakes myself?
Replacing drum brakes is a relatively simple job that can be done with basic tools. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully and to inspect the brakes regularly for wear and tear.
