Revolutionize Your Driving: Essential Tips on How to Remove Parking Brake Drum Brakes

Are you facing a brake issue and need to delve into the world of drum brakes? Knowing how to remove parking brake drum brakes can be a valuable skill for any car owner. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this task.

Essential Tools for the Job

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and successful removal:

• Jack and Jack Stands: These are crucial for lifting your vehicle safely.
• Lug Wrench: Used to loosen the lug nuts on your wheels.
• Socket Set: You’ll need various sizes to remove the brake drum and other components.
• Breaker Bar: Provides additional leverage for stubborn bolts.
• Hammer: Used for tapping components loose.
• Wrench: For tightening and loosening nuts and bolts.
• Pry Bar: Helps to separate components if necessary.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grease.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.

Preparation: Getting Ready for the Removal

1. Safety First: Before starting any work on your vehicle, engage the parking brake and chock the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
2. Locate the Parking Brake Cable: Identify the parking brake cable that connects to the rear brake drums.
3. Release the Cable Tension: Loosen the adjuster nut on the cable to release tension. This will allow you to remove the drum more easily.
4. Remove the Wheel: Using your lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on. Then, raise the vehicle with the jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel completely.

Removing the Brake Drum: A Step-by-Step Approach

1. Inspect the Drum: Look for any signs of rust, wear, or damage on the brake drum.
2. Locate the Adjustment Star Wheel: The star wheel is a small, notched wheel that adjusts the brake shoes.
3. Turn the Adjustment Star Wheel: Use a screwdriver or a special tool to turn the adjustment star wheel counterclockwise. This will loosen the brake shoes and make it easier to remove the drum.
4. Tap the Drum: Gently tap the brake drum with a hammer to help it loosen. Be careful not to damage the drum.
5. Remove the Drum: Once the drum is loose, slide it off the brake shoe assembly.

Inspecting the Brake Components

1. Brake Shoes: Examine the brake shoes for wear, cracks, or glazing. Replace them if necessary.
2. Brake Drum: Inspect the brake drum for wear, cracks, or scoring. Replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
3. Springs and Hardware: Check the springs and other hardware for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged components.

Reassembling the Brake System

1. Install New Components: Replace any worn or damaged components with new ones.
2. Adjust the Brake Shoes: Use the adjustment star wheel to adjust the brake shoes to the proper clearance.
3. Install the Brake Drum: Slide the brake drum back onto the brake shoe assembly.
4. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts securely.
5. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
6. Test the Brakes: Test the brakes by pressing the brake pedal several times. Make sure the brakes are working properly.

Final Steps: Ensuring a Smooth Ride

1. Check for Leaks: Inspect the brake system for any leaks.
2. Clean Up: Clean up any spills or debris.
3. Enjoy the Ride: Once you’ve completed the process, enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve properly maintained your brakes.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Tips and Considerations

• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
• Use a Torque Wrench: To ensure proper tightness, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts and nuts to the specified torque values.
• Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the signs that my parking brake needs attention?

• A squeaking or grinding noise when applying the parking brake.
• The parking brake not holding the vehicle securely on a slope.
• The parking brake lever requiring excessive force to engage.

2. How often should I inspect my parking brake system?

• It’s a good idea to inspect your parking brake system at least once a year or whenever you service your brakes.

3. Can I replace the brake shoes without removing the drum?

• In some cases, you may be able to replace the brake shoes without removing the drum. However, this is not recommended as it can be difficult to adjust the brake shoes properly.

4. How do I know if my brake drums need to be replaced?

• Check for excessive wear, scoring, or cracks. If the drum is worn below the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer, it needs to be replaced.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when removing parking brake drum brakes?

• Failing to release the parking brake cable tension.
• Overtightening the lug nuts.
• Not properly adjusting the brake shoes.
• Not checking for leaks after reassembly.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can confidently remove parking brake drum brakes and ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance. Remember, if you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.