How to Remove Brake Drums: A Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Mechanics

Removing brake drums can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable DIY project. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of how to safely and effectively remove brake drums from your vehicle. Whether you’re replacing worn-out brake shoes, inspecting the brake system, or simply learning about car maintenance, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need.

Why Remove Brake Drums?

Brake drums are a crucial component of the braking system, particularly in older vehicles or on the rear wheels of some newer models. Over time, brake drums can become worn, scored, or damaged. Common reasons to remove them include:

* **Replacing Brake Shoes:** This is the most frequent reason. Brake shoes wear down with use and need periodic replacement.
* **Inspecting the Brake System:** Removing the drum allows you to inspect the brake shoes, wheel cylinder, springs, and other components for wear, leaks, or damage.
* **Addressing Brake Noise:** Unusual noises like squealing, grinding, or clicking can indicate problems within the drum brake system.
* **Servicing the Wheel Cylinder:** The wheel cylinder is responsible for pushing the brake shoes against the drum. Leaks or malfunctions require removal and potentially replacement.
* **Replacing the Brake Drum Itself:** If the drum is scored, cracked, or excessively worn, it needs to be replaced.

Safety First!

Before you begin any automotive work, prioritize safety. These precautions are crucial:

* **Wear Safety Glasses:** Protect your eyes from dust, debris, and potential flying particles.
* **Wear Gloves:** Protect your hands from dirt, grease, and sharp edges.
* **Use Jack Stands:** Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Jack stands provide a stable and secure platform.
* **Chock the Wheels:** Prevent the vehicle from rolling by chocking the wheels opposite the ones you’re working on.
* **Work in a Well-Ventilated Area:** Brake dust can contain asbestos (in older vehicles) and other harmful substances. Ensure adequate ventilation.
* **Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:** This prevents accidental electrical shocks or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.
* **Consult Your Vehicle’s Repair Manual:** This manual provides specific instructions and torque specifications for your vehicle model.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Having the right tools will make the job much easier and safer. Here’s a list of essential items:

* **Jack and Jack Stands:** To safely lift and support the vehicle.
* **Wheel Chocks:** To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* **Lug Wrench:** To remove the lug nuts.
* **Flathead Screwdriver:** For various tasks, including removing retaining clips and adjusting the star wheel adjuster.
* **Brake Drum Removal Tool (Brake Spoon):** A specialized tool designed to compress the brake shoes and ease drum removal. A large flathead screwdriver *can* be used, but the brake spoon is preferable.
* **Brake Adjusting Tool (Star Wheel Adjuster Tool):** For adjusting the brake shoes if necessary. A small flathead screwdriver *can* be used, but the specialized tool is preferable.
* **Penetrating Oil (e.g., WD-40):** To help loosen rusted or stuck components.
* **Brake Cleaner:** To clean brake dust and debris from the brake components.
* **Wire Brush:** To clean rust and corrosion from the hub and drum.
* **Hammer (optional):** For gently tapping the drum to loosen it. A rubber mallet is preferred to avoid damage.
* **Torque Wrench:** To properly tighten the lug nuts and other fasteners.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes.
* **Shop Rags:** For cleaning.
* **Camera or Phone:** Taking pictures before disassembly can be helpful for reassembly.
* **Repair Manual:** Your vehicle’s specific repair manual is invaluable.
* **Brake Spring Pliers (Optional):** Makes removing and installing brake springs significantly easier.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Removing Brake Drums

Follow these steps carefully to safely and effectively remove your vehicle’s brake drums:

**Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle**

1. **Park on a Level Surface:** Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface.
2. **Engage the Parking Brake:** Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling (before lifting it).
3. **Loosen the Lug Nuts:** Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel of the drum you’ll be removing. Don’t remove them completely at this stage; just break them loose.
4. **Chock the Wheels:** Place wheel chocks behind the wheels on the opposite end of the vehicle from the wheel you’re working on. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling when you lift it.
5. **Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:** Locate the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery (usually marked with a ‘-‘ sign). Use a wrench to loosen the nut securing the cable to the terminal and carefully remove the cable. This prevents accidental electrical shocks.

**Step 2: Lift and Secure the Vehicle**

1. **Consult Your Repair Manual:** Locate the recommended jacking points for your vehicle in the repair manual. Using the wrong jacking point can damage the vehicle.
2. **Position the Jack:** Place the jack under the designated jacking point.
3. **Lift the Vehicle:** Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle with the jack until the tire is off the ground.
4. **Place Jack Stands:** Position jack stands under the vehicle’s frame near the jacking point. Ensure the jack stands are securely placed on a solid surface.
5. **Lower the Vehicle onto the Jack Stands:** Carefully lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Make sure the jack stands are supporting the weight of the vehicle. It’s a good idea to leave the jack in place as a backup, but the jack stands are the primary support.
6. **Remove the Wheel:** Now that the vehicle is safely supported, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

**Step 3: Access the Brake Drum**

With the wheel removed, you’ll have direct access to the brake drum. Before attempting to remove the drum, inspect it for any retaining clips or screws.

* **Check for Retaining Clips or Screws:** Some vehicles use small retaining clips or screws to hold the brake drum in place. These are typically located on the face of the drum, near the wheel studs. If you see any, use a flathead screwdriver or the appropriate tool to remove them.

**Step 4: Try to Remove the Brake Drum**

This is often the trickiest part, as brake drums can become seized or rusted onto the hub. Here are several techniques to try:

1. **Penetrating Oil:** Apply penetrating oil around the center hub of the brake drum where it meets the axle flange. Let it soak for at least 15-20 minutes to help loosen any rust or corrosion.
2. **Gentle Tapping:** Use a hammer (preferably a rubber mallet) to gently tap around the perimeter of the brake drum. Avoid hitting the drum too hard, as you could damage it. The vibrations can help break the bond between the drum and the hub. Rotate the drum slightly after each set of taps.
3. **Rocking Motion:** Try rocking the brake drum back and forth. Apply pressure on opposite sides of the drum to see if you can loosen it. Again, avoid excessive force.
4. **Using a Brake Drum Removal Tool (Brake Spoon):** This is the preferred method if the drum is stuck because the brake shoes are pressing against the inside of the drum. Locate the access slot (usually on the backing plate behind the drum). Use a brake spoon (or a suitable flathead screwdriver) to reach the star wheel adjuster. The goal is to turn the star wheel to retract the brake shoes away from the drum. You will likely need to insert a small screwdriver to hold the adjustment lever out of the way while retracting the star wheel. This lever prevents the star wheel from turning backwards during normal use. Retracting the shoes will create more clearance and allow the drum to be removed.
5. **Two-Hammer Method (If Absolutely Necessary):** This method should be used with extreme caution, as it can damage the drum or hub. Using two hammers simultaneously, strike the drum on opposite sides. The goal is to create vibrations that break the bond without damaging the components. Wear safety glasses and gloves.

**Step 5: Adjusting the Brake Shoes (If Necessary)**

If the brake drum is still stuck after trying the above methods, the brake shoes are likely pressing too tightly against the inside of the drum. You’ll need to retract the brake shoes using the star wheel adjuster.

1. **Locate the Adjuster Access Slot:** On the backing plate (the metal plate behind the brake drum), you’ll find an oval-shaped access slot. This slot allows you to reach the star wheel adjuster.
2. **Remove the Rubber Plug (If Present):** Some access slots have a rubber plug covering them. Remove the plug to gain access to the star wheel adjuster.
3. **Use the Brake Adjusting Tool (or Flathead Screwdriver):** Insert the brake adjusting tool (or a small flathead screwdriver) into the access slot to reach the star wheel. The star wheel is a toothed wheel that adjusts the position of the brake shoes.
4. **Retract the Brake Shoes:** Rotate the star wheel to retract the brake shoes. You’ll need to determine which direction to turn the star wheel to retract the shoes. It may require some trial and error. The goal is to create more clearance between the brake shoes and the drum. Often, you will need to use a second, thin screwdriver or pick to hold the self-adjusting lever away from the star wheel while you retract the shoes. This lever is designed to keep the star wheel from being loosened, but it needs to be moved out of the way for manual adjustment.
5. **Try Removing the Drum Again:** After adjusting the brake shoes, try removing the drum again. Use the techniques described in Step 4. If the drum is still stuck, continue to retract the brake shoes in small increments until the drum can be removed.

**Step 6: Final Removal and Inspection**

1. **Remove the Brake Drum:** Once the brake shoes are sufficiently retracted, the brake drum should slide off the hub. If it still requires some force, use gentle tapping with a rubber mallet.
2. **Inspect the Brake Components:** After removing the brake drum, thoroughly inspect the brake shoes, wheel cylinder, springs, and other components for wear, leaks, or damage. Look for:
* **Brake Shoe Thickness:** Check the thickness of the brake shoe friction material. If it’s worn down to the metal backing, it needs to be replaced.
* **Wheel Cylinder Leaks:** Inspect the wheel cylinder for any signs of leaks. A leaking wheel cylinder indicates a problem that needs to be addressed.
* **Spring Condition:** Check the springs for signs of damage or fatigue. Replace any broken or weakened springs.
* **Hardware Condition:** Check the condition of all the hardware, including the retainers and self-adjusters.
3. **Clean the Components:** Use brake cleaner to clean brake dust and debris from all the brake components.
4. **Clean the Hub:** Use a wire brush to clean any rust or corrosion from the hub surface.

Common Problems and Solutions

* **Stuck Brake Drum:** This is the most common problem. Use penetrating oil, gentle tapping, and adjust the brake shoes to free the drum.
* **Rusted Hub:** Rust can make it difficult to remove the drum. Clean the hub with a wire brush and apply anti-seize lubricant to prevent future issues.
* **Damaged Brake Shoes:** If the brake shoes are severely worn or damaged, they need to be replaced.
* **Leaking Wheel Cylinder:** A leaking wheel cylinder requires replacement. Ignoring it can lead to brake failure.
* **Stripped Threads:** Be careful not to strip the threads on the lug nuts or other fasteners. Use a torque wrench to tighten them to the correct specification.

Reassembly Tips

* **Take Pictures Before Disassembly:** This will help you remember how everything goes back together.
* **Use New Hardware:** Replace any worn or damaged hardware, such as springs, retainers, and self-adjusters.
* **Lubricate Moving Parts:** Use brake grease to lubricate the moving parts of the brake system.
* **Adjust the Brakes:** After reassembling the brake system, adjust the brakes properly. Consult your vehicle’s repair manual for the correct adjustment procedure.
* **Test the Brakes:** After reassembly, test the brakes thoroughly before driving the vehicle. Make sure the brakes are functioning properly and that there are no unusual noises or vibrations.

Conclusion

Removing brake drums is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can successfully remove your vehicle’s brake drums and inspect or service the brake system. Remember to consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. If you’re not comfortable performing this task yourself, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.