Your car’s brakes are its most crucial safety system, responsible for bringing your vehicle to a safe and controlled stop. Drum brakes, a common type of braking system, rely on friction between brake shoes and a rotating drum to generate the necessary stopping force. While disc brakes have gained popularity in recent years, drum brakes are still found on many vehicles, particularly older models and rear axles. Understanding how to maintain and repair your drum brakes is essential for ensuring safe and reliable driving. One of the most important maintenance tasks for drum brakes is replacing worn brake shoes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of changing brake shoes on drum brakes, empowering you to perform this essential maintenance task yourself.
Table of Contents
Importance of Brake Shoe Replacement
Brake shoes are the components that directly contact the drum to create friction and slow down the vehicle. Over time, brake shoes wear down due to repeated use. Worn brake shoes can lead to a number of problems, including:
- Reduced braking efficiency: Worn shoes provide less friction, requiring you to press the brake pedal harder to achieve the same stopping power.
- Increased stopping distance: With reduced braking efficiency, your vehicle will take longer to come to a complete stop.
- Brake fade: Under heavy braking, worn shoes can overheat and lose their effectiveness, leading to a gradual decrease in braking power.
- Damage to other brake components: Worn shoes can put excessive stress on other brake components, such as the wheel cylinders and brake drums, potentially leading to premature failure.
Regular inspection and timely replacement of brake shoes are crucial for maintaining safe and reliable braking performance.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.
Tools
- Socket wrench set
- Wrench set
- Breaker bar (optional)
- C-clamp
- Lug wrench
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Jack and jack stands
- Torque wrench
- Wire brush
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Materials
- New brake shoes
- Brake shoe hardware kit (including springs, pins, and clips)
- Brake cleaner
- Brake grease
- Wheel cylinder rebuild kit (optional)
Procedure for Changing Brake Shoes
Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, follow these steps to replace your brake shoes:
1. Prepare the Vehicle
Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Chock the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the drum brake you will be working on. Jack up the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel. (See Also: How Long To Brake Pads Last On Average? Discover The Facts)
2. Access the Brake Drum
Locate the retaining clips or bolts that hold the brake drum in place. Remove these clips or bolts. Carefully pull the brake drum off the axle. You may need to tap the drum gently with a hammer to loosen it.
3. Remove the Old Brake Shoes
Inspect the old brake shoes for wear and tear. Note the position of the springs, pins, and clips that hold the shoes in place. Carefully remove the old brake shoes from the backing plate. You may need to use a pry bar to gently separate the shoes from the backing plate.
4. Inspect and Clean the Brake Components
Inspect the wheel cylinder, brake drum, and backing plate for any damage or wear. Clean the surfaces thoroughly with brake cleaner and a wire brush. If necessary, replace the wheel cylinder or drum with new components. Lubricate the wheel cylinder piston seals with brake grease.
5. Install the New Brake Shoes
Install the new brake shoes onto the backing plate, ensuring they are properly positioned and seated. Replace the springs, pins, and clips that hold the shoes in place. Make sure all components are properly aligned and secured.
6. Reassemble the Brake System
Carefully slide the brake drum back onto the axle. Install the retaining clips or bolts and tighten them securely. Lubricate the brake drum contact surfaces with brake grease. Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
7. Adjust the Brake System
Adjust the brake system according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This typically involves using a brake adjuster tool to set the proper clearance between the brake shoes and the drum. Test the brakes by gently applying the pedal several times. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the brakes are working properly. (See Also: Which Way Do The Clips Go On Brake Pads? Solved!)
Safety Precautions
When working on your brakes, always prioritize safety. Follow these precautions:
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from grease and grime.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling brake dust.
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands for safety.
- Be aware of the weight of the vehicle and take care when lifting or moving components.
Recap
Changing brake shoes on drum brakes is a relatively straightforward maintenance task that can be performed by a do-it-yourself mechanic with basic tools and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your brakes are in optimal condition, providing you with safe and reliable stopping power. Remember to always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consult a qualified mechanic for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my brake shoes?
The frequency of brake shoe replacement depends on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle usage. As a general guideline, it is recommended to inspect your brake shoes every 12,000-15,000 miles. If you notice signs of wear, such as thin lining or uneven wear patterns, it is time to replace them.
Can I replace only one brake shoe?
It is generally not recommended to replace only one brake shoe. Brake shoes work in pairs, and replacing only one can lead to uneven wear and braking performance issues. It is best to replace both brake shoes on the same axle simultaneously.
What is the purpose of the brake adjuster?
The brake adjuster is a tool used to set the proper clearance between the brake shoes and the drum. This clearance is crucial for ensuring smooth and efficient braking. Over time, brake shoes wear down, and the clearance may need to be adjusted to maintain optimal braking performance. (See Also: How to Fix Brake Pads Rubbing on Rotor? Quick DIY Solution)
What should I do if my brake drum is damaged?
If your brake drum is damaged, it should be replaced. A damaged drum can lead to uneven braking, noise, and potential brake failure. It is essential to use a drum that meets the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle.
Can I use a different type of brake shoe than the one recommended for my vehicle?
It is not recommended to use brake shoes that are not specifically designed for your vehicle. Using the wrong type of brake shoe can lead to improper fitment, reduced braking performance, and potential damage to other brake components.
