The drum brake is a crucial component of your vehicle’s braking system, responsible for converting the kinetic energy of the vehicle into heat energy to slow it down. Over time, the drum brake can wear out, losing its effectiveness and putting your safety at risk. That’s why it’s essential to know how to change a drum brake when it’s time to replace it.
Changing a drum brake is a relatively complex process that requires some mechanical skills and knowledge. However, with the right guidance, you can do it yourself and save money on labor costs. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of changing a drum brake, covering the necessary tools, safety precautions, and techniques to ensure a successful replacement.
Table of Contents
Preparation is Key
Before you start changing your drum brake, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- A drum brake kit, which includes new brake shoes, hardware, and a new drum
- A brake cleaning solution
- A wire brush
- A hammer
- A pair of gloves
- A safety glasses
- A torque wrench
It’s also important to ensure you have a safe and well-lit workspace, free from any distractions or hazards. Make sure you have a good understanding of the process and have consulted your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions.
Removing the Wheel and Drum
The first step in changing your drum brake is to remove the wheel and drum. Here’s how:
1. Loosen the lug nuts: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel. Make sure to loosen them in a star pattern to avoid damaging the wheel.
2. Raise the vehicle: Use a car jack to raise the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground. Make sure it’s securely supported by jack stands.
3. Remove the wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Remove the drum: Use a drum removal tool to remove the drum from the hub. You may need to use a hammer to tap it loose.
Removing the Brake Shoes
Once you have removed the drum, you can start removing the brake shoes. Here’s how: (See Also: What Is a Brake Rectifier? Essential Guide)
1. Remove the spring clips: Use a screwdriver to remove the spring clips that hold the brake shoes in place.
2. Remove the brake shoes: Gently pull the brake shoes out of the drum. You may need to use a little bit of force, but be careful not to damage the shoes or the drum.
3. Remove the anchor pins: Use a punch or a hammer to remove the anchor pins that hold the brake shoes in place.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Drum
Before you install the new brake shoes, it’s a good idea to inspect and clean the drum. Here’s how:
1. Inspect the drum: Look for any signs of wear or damage on the drum. If it’s damaged, you may need to replace it.
2. Clean the drum: Use a wire brush to clean the drum and remove any debris or rust.
3. Apply a rust inhibitor: Apply a rust inhibitor to the drum to prevent rust from forming.
Installing the New Brake Shoes
Now it’s time to install the new brake shoes. Here’s how:
1. Install the anchor pins: Use a punch or a hammer to install the anchor pins in the drum.
2. Install the brake shoes: Gently push the brake shoes into the drum, making sure they’re properly seated. (See Also: What Causes a Brand New Brake Caliper to Stick? Common Issues Revealed)
3. Install the spring clips: Use a screwdriver to install the spring clips that hold the brake shoes in place.
Installing the New Drum
Once you have installed the new brake shoes, it’s time to install the new drum. Here’s how:
1. Install the drum: Use a drum installation tool to install the drum on the hub.
2. Tighten the drum: Use a torque wrench to tighten the drum in a star pattern.
Reinstalling the Wheel
Now it’s time to reinstall the wheel. Here’s how:
1. Lower the vehicle: Use a car jack to lower the vehicle back down to the ground.
2. Tighten the lug nuts: Use a lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
3. Check the brake pedal: Test the brake pedal to make sure it’s functioning properly.
Recap and Conclusion
Changing a drum brake is a complex process that requires some mechanical skills and knowledge. However, with the right guidance, you can do it yourself and save money on labor costs. Remember to always follow proper safety precautions and consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions. (See Also: How to Wire Trans Brake? Simplify Your Ride)
Here’s a summary of the key points:
- Remove the wheel and drum
- Remove the brake shoes
- Inspect and clean the drum
- Install the new brake shoes
- Install the new drum
- Reinstall the wheel
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the common symptoms of a worn-out drum brake?
A: Common symptoms of a worn-out drum brake include spongy brake pedal, reduced braking power, and a grinding or screeching noise when applying the brakes.
Q: Can I replace just one brake shoe or do I need to replace the entire set?
A: It’s recommended to replace the entire set of brake shoes at once to ensure even braking performance. However, if you’re replacing just one brake shoe, make sure to match it to the other shoe in terms of quality and type.
Q: How often should I replace my drum brake?
A: The frequency of replacing your drum brake depends on the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and maintenance schedule. Typically, drum brakes should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
Q: Can I do this repair myself or should I take it to a professional mechanic?
A: If you have the necessary skills and knowledge, you can do this repair yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable with the process, it’s recommended to take it to a professional mechanic to ensure a safe and proper repair.
Q: What are the benefits of upgrading to a disc brake system?
A: Upgrading to a disc brake system can provide better braking performance, improved safety, and reduced maintenance costs. Disc brakes are also more resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures better than drum brakes.
