Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safety on the road. Brake shoes, a vital component in drum brake systems, wear down over time and require relining to ensure optimal stopping power.
How to Reline Brake Shoes
Relining brake shoes involves replacing the friction material that comes in contact with the brake drum. This process can save you money compared to replacing the entire brake shoe assembly and extends the life of your brake system.
Overview
This guide will walk you through the steps involved in relining brake shoes, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to perform this essential maintenance task yourself. We’ll cover the necessary tools, safety precautions, and a step-by-step procedure.
How to Reline Brake Shoes
Brake shoes are an essential component of drum brake systems, responsible for applying friction to the brake drum to slow or stop the vehicle. Over time, the friction material on brake shoes wears down, reducing their effectiveness. Relining brake shoes involves replacing the worn friction material with new linings, restoring their braking power and safety. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of relining brake shoes, empowering you to tackle this essential maintenance task yourself.
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.
- New brake shoe linings
- Brake shoe relining kit (may include adhesive, rivets, and other hardware)
- C-clamp or brake shoe spreader
- Socket set and wrenches
- Hammer
- Punch
- Wire brush
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Brake cleaner
Safety Precautions
Working on brakes requires caution. Always prioritize safety to prevent injury and ensure proper functionality. (See Also: How To Use Parking Brake Correctly)
- Wear safety glasses and gloves throughout the process.
- Chock the rear wheels securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Disconnect the battery negative terminal to avoid electrical shorts.
- Use a jack and jack stands to safely support the vehicle when necessary.
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Removing the Brake Drums
The first step is to remove the brake drums to access the brake shoes. The specific procedure may vary slightly depending on the vehicle model.
- Locate the wheel cylinders and brake lines.
- Remove the lug nuts and carefully lower the vehicle.
- Remove the cotter pin and castle nut securing the wheel cylinder to the backing plate.
- Disconnect the brake line from the wheel cylinder.
- Use a brake drum puller or a large screwdriver to pry the brake drum off the brake shoes.
Inspecting the Brake Shoes
Once the brake drums are removed, inspect the brake shoes for wear, damage, or glazing. If the linings are excessively worn or damaged, they need to be relined or replaced.
- Check the thickness of the remaining lining material.
- Look for cracks, tears, or other signs of damage.
- Inspect the shoe anchors and pins for wear or looseness.
Relining the Brake Shoes
Now that you have removed the old linings, it’s time to install the new ones. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a proper and secure relining.
Preparing the Brake Shoes
- Clean the brake shoe backing plate thoroughly with a wire brush and brake cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or rust.
- Inspect the shoe anchors and pins for wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged components.
- If necessary, use a hammer and punch to remove any rivets holding the old linings in place.
Installing the New Linings
- Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the new lining material according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Carefully position the new lining onto the backing plate, ensuring it is flush and aligned with the shoe anchors.
- Use a C-clamp or brake shoe spreader to firmly press the lining onto the backing plate, ensuring good adhesion.
- Allow the adhesive to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Riveting the Linings
- Once the adhesive is cured, use a rivet gun to secure the new linings to the backing plate. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for rivet spacing and installation.
- Ensure that the rivets are properly set and flush with the surface of the backing plate.
Reassembling the Brake System
With the relined brake shoes ready, reassemble the brake system in reverse order of disassembly.
- Install the brake drums onto the brake shoes.
- Reconnect the brake lines to the wheel cylinders.
- Tighten the castle nut and cotter pin securing the wheel cylinder to the backing plate.
- Install the lug nuts and lower the vehicle.
- Bleed the brakes to remove any air from the system.
Testing and Adjusting the Brakes
After reassembling the brake system, it’s crucial to test and adjust the brakes to ensure proper function and safety. (See Also: How Much For A Brake Job With Rotors)
- Take the vehicle for a test drive in a safe area.
- Apply the brakes gradually at various speeds to check for smooth and responsive braking.
- Adjust the brake pedal free play according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Inspect the brake drums and shoes for any signs of overheating or damage.
Recap and Conclusion
Relining brake shoes is a vital maintenance task that can extend the life of your braking system and ensure safe operation. By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully reline your brake shoes and restore your vehicle’s braking power. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the correct tools and materials, and consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
Relining brake shoes is a rewarding DIY project that can save you money and enhance your mechanical skills. With careful attention to detail and a commitment to safety, you can confidently tackle this essential maintenance task and keep your vehicle stopping safely and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions: Brake Shoe Relining
What is brake shoe relining?
Brake shoe relining is the process of replacing the worn friction material on brake shoes. Over time, the lining material wears down, reducing the braking effectiveness of your vehicle. Relining involves removing the old lining and attaching a new friction material to the shoe.
Why is it important to reline brake shoes?
Relining brake shoes is crucial for safe and efficient braking. Worn brake shoes can lead to reduced stopping power, longer braking distances, and increased risk of accidents. It’s also important to prevent damage to other brake components, such as the drums.
How often should brake shoes be relined?
The frequency of relining depends on driving conditions, vehicle usage, and the quality of the brake shoes. Generally, brake shoes should be inspected every 12,000-15,000 miles. If the lining thickness is below the minimum recommended level, relining is necessary. (See Also: Do All Cars Have Brake Calipers)
Can I reline brake shoes myself?
While it’s possible to reline brake shoes yourself, it requires specialized tools and knowledge. If you’re not comfortable with brake repair, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic perform the relining process.
What are the signs that my brake shoes need relining?
Some common signs include a grinding or squealing noise when braking, a spongy brake pedal, and reduced braking effectiveness. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to have your brakes inspected immediately.
