Essential Tips for Replacing Parking Brake Shoes: A Comprehensive How-To

Learning how to replace parking brake shoes is a valuable skill for any DIY enthusiast. It can save you a significant amount of money compared to taking your car to a mechanic. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering the necessary tools and materials to completing the replacement.

Understanding the Parking Brake System

Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to understand how the parking brake system works. The parking brake, also known as the handbrake, is a mechanical system that engages the rear wheels, preventing your car from rolling. It typically consists of:

• Brake Shoes: These are the friction pads that press against the brake drum.
• Brake Drum: The metal drum that the brake shoes press against.
• Adjusting Mechanism: Allows you to adjust the tightness of the brake shoes.
• Cable: Connects the parking brake lever to the brake shoes.

When to Replace Parking Brake Shoes

Over time, the brake shoes wear down due to friction. This can lead to a number of issues, including:

• Ineffective parking brake: The parking brake may not be able to hold the car securely on an incline.
• Grinding noise: Worn brake shoes can produce a grinding noise when the parking brake is applied.
• Reduced braking performance: If the parking brake shoes are worn excessively, it can affect the overall braking performance of the vehicle.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

• Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the car.
• Lug wrench: To remove the lug nuts.
• Wrench set: To loosen and tighten various bolts.
• Socket wrench: For removing and installing the brake drum.
• Pliers: For removing and installing the brake shoe return springs.
• Screwdriver: For adjusting the parking brake cable.
• New parking brake shoes: Make sure to purchase shoes that are compatible with your vehicle.
• Brake cleaner: To clean the brake drums and shoes.
• Grease: For lubricating the brake shoe adjuster.
• Safety glasses and gloves: To protect your eyes and hands.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Parking Brake Shoes

Follow these steps carefully to replace your parking brake shoes:

1. Engage the parking brake and chock the front wheels. Ensure the car is securely parked on a level surface.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels. This will make it easier to remove the wheels later.
3. Use the jack to lift the rear of the car. Place the jack stands under the frame of the car for stability.
4. Remove the rear wheel.
5. Identify the parking brake mechanism. It’s usually located behind the brake drum.
6. Remove the brake drum. You may need to use a hammer and a chisel to gently tap the drum off.
7. Release the parking brake cable. Locate the adjuster and loosen it.
8. Remove the old brake shoes. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry them off.
9. Clean the brake drum and shoes. Use brake cleaner to remove any debris or rust.
10. Install the new brake shoes. Ensure that the shoes are properly seated in the brake drum.
11. Reinstall the brake drum. Make sure it’s securely attached.
12. Adjust the parking brake cable. Tighten the adjuster until the parking brake engages properly.
13. Reinstall the rear wheel. Tighten the lug nuts securely.
14. Lower the car and remove the jack stands.
15. Test the parking brake. Make sure it engages and holds the car securely.

Tips for a Smooth Replacement

• Inspect the brake cable: If the cable is worn or frayed, it’s a good idea to replace it as well.
• Use a torque wrench: To ensure that the lug nuts are tightened to the correct specification.
• Lubricate the brake shoe adjuster: This will help to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
• Clean up any spilled brake fluid. Brake fluid is corrosive and can damage paint.
• Be patient and take your time. Replacing parking brake shoes is a relatively simple task, but it’s important to be careful and thorough.

Beyond the Replacement: Maintaining your Parking Brake System

Replacing brake shoes is a necessary part of maintaining your car’s braking system. However, there are other steps you can take to keep your parking brake in top condition:

• Check the parking brake regularly: Make sure it engages and holds the car securely.
• Adjust the parking brake cable as needed. Over time, the cable can stretch, requiring adjustment.
• Avoid using the parking brake on steep inclines. This can put excessive strain on the system.
• Don’t use the parking brake as a substitute for the regular brakes.

Time to Get Rolling: Your Parking Brake is Ready

Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your parking brake shoes. Now you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your parking brake is in excellent working order.

Information You Need to Know

1. How often should I replace my parking brake shoes?
The lifespan of parking brake shoes varies depending on driving habits and road conditions. However, it’s generally recommended to inspect them every 25,000 to 30,000 miles and replace them as needed.

2. Can I replace the brake shoes without removing the brake drum?
No, you need to remove the brake drum to access the brake shoes.

3. What happens if I don’t replace the parking brake shoes?
Worn brake shoes can lead to a number of problems, including a failed parking brake, grinding noise, and reduced braking performance.

4. Is it safe to drive with worn parking brake shoes?
It’s not recommended to drive with worn parking brake shoes, as it can compromise the safety of your vehicle.

5. Can I use the parking brake to slow down the car?
No, the parking brake is designed to hold the car in place, not to slow it down. Using it for braking can put excessive strain on the system and lead to premature wear.