DIY Guide: Replacing Your Rear Brake Shoes – A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Replacing your rear brake shoes is a common maintenance task that can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. While it might seem daunting, with the right tools, a little patience, and this detailed guide, you can tackle this job yourself. This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to changing rear brake shoes. **Disclaimer**: Working on brakes can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you’re not comfortable with any of these steps, please consult a qualified mechanic.
## Understanding Rear Brake Shoes
Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to understand what rear brake shoes are and how they function. Rear brake shoes are a part of the drum brake system, commonly found on the rear wheels of many vehicles, especially older models or those with lighter rear axles. Unlike disc brakes, which use calipers and rotors, drum brakes utilize a cylindrical drum that houses the brake shoes. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the inner surface of the drum, creating friction and slowing the vehicle.
**Key Components of a Drum Brake System:**
* **Brake Shoes:** The friction material that presses against the drum to slow the vehicle.
* **Brake Drum:** The cylindrical metal drum that rotates with the wheel and provides the friction surface for the shoes.
* **Wheel Cylinder:** A hydraulic cylinder that pushes the brake shoes outward when the brake pedal is pressed.
* **Return Springs:** Springs that pull the brake shoes back away from the drum when the brake pedal is released.
* **Adjuster Mechanism:** A mechanism (often star-shaped) that compensates for wear in the brake shoes, maintaining proper brake pedal travel.
* **Hold-Down Springs:** Springs that secure the brake shoes to the backing plate.
* **Parking Brake Cable:** A cable that mechanically actuates the brake shoes when the parking brake is engaged.
* **Backing Plate:** A stationary plate that supports all the drum brake components.
## Why Replace Brake Shoes?
Brake shoes wear down over time due to the friction generated during braking. As the friction material wears thin, braking performance diminishes, and you might experience:
* **Reduced braking power:** It takes longer to stop the vehicle.
* **Spongy brake pedal:** The brake pedal feels soft and requires more travel.
* **Squealing or grinding noises:** These noises indicate worn brake shoes rubbing against the drum.
* **Uneven braking:** The vehicle pulls to one side during braking.
* **Increased stopping distance:** A safety hazard.
Regularly inspecting your brake shoes and replacing them when necessary is crucial for maintaining safe braking performance.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials:
* **New Brake Shoes:** Make sure you get the correct part for your vehicle’s make, model, and year. It’s best to check your vehicle’s manual or consult with an auto parts store.
* **Brake Hardware Kit:** This kit includes new springs, clips, and adjusters. It’s recommended to replace these components along with the shoes.
* **Brake Cleaner:** Use brake cleaner to remove dirt, grease, and brake dust from the brake components.
* **Brake Grease (High-Temperature):** Apply brake grease to the backing plate contact points and adjuster threads.
* **Wheel Chocks:** To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* **Jack and Jack Stands:** To safely lift and support the vehicle.
* **Lug Wrench:** To remove the wheel nuts.
* **Socket Set and Wrenches:** Metric or SAE, depending on your vehicle.
* **Pliers (Regular and Needle-Nose):** For removing and installing springs and clips.
* **Screwdrivers (Flathead and Phillips):** For various tasks, including adjusting the star wheel adjuster.
* **Brake Spring Tool:** A specialized tool for easily removing and installing brake springs. This tool is highly recommended.
* **Brake Shoe Adjustment Tool (Optional):** A tool specifically designed for adjusting the star wheel adjuster.
* **Hammer:** For gently tapping components if needed.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from brake dust and debris.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands from dirt and grease.
* **Torque Wrench:** To tighten the wheel nuts to the proper torque specification.
* **Pen and Paper or a Camera:** To document the arrangement of the brake components before disassembly.
* **Wire Brush:** To clean rust and debris from the backing plate and other components.
* **Rubber Mallet:** For gently persuading the brake drum off the hub.
* **Shop Rags:** For cleaning.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Rear Brake Shoes
**1. Safety First!**
* Park the vehicle on a level surface.
* Engage the parking brake.
* Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
**2. Loosen the Lug Nuts:**
* Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on. Don’t remove them completely at this stage, just break them free.
**3. Raise and Support the Vehicle:**
* Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the correct jacking points.
* Use the jack to raise the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground.
* Place a jack stand under the vehicle’s frame near the jacking point for safety. **Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.**
* Lower the vehicle onto the jack stand.
**4. Remove the Wheel:**
* Completely remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
* Set the wheel aside.
**5. Remove the Brake Drum:**
* This can sometimes be the most challenging part. The brake drum might be stuck due to rust or a ridge of wear on the inside edge.
* **Release the Parking Brake:** Make sure the parking brake is completely disengaged.
* **Spray Penetrating Oil:** Spray penetrating oil around the center of the drum where it contacts the axle hub. Let it soak for a few minutes.
* **Tap the Drum:** Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the drum around its circumference. This can help break it free from rust.
* **Adjust the Star Wheel Adjuster (If Necessary):** If the drum is still stuck, you might need to retract the brake shoes slightly by adjusting the star wheel adjuster. Locate the access hole on the backing plate (usually covered by a rubber plug). Remove the plug and use a flathead screwdriver and brake adjustment tool (if you have one) to turn the star wheel adjuster. The direction you need to turn it depends on the vehicle; you may need to experiment. You are trying to retract the brake shoes slightly away from the drum’s inner surface. Turn the adjuster a few clicks at a time, then try removing the drum again. If it still won’t budge, continue adjusting until it comes free. Be careful not to over-adjust, as this could damage the adjuster mechanism.
* **Pull the Drum:** Once the drum is free, pull it straight off the hub. If it’s still difficult, double-check that the parking brake is fully released and that the star wheel adjuster is retracted sufficiently.
**6. Inspect the Brake Components:**
* With the drum removed, you’ll have a clear view of the brake shoes, springs, wheel cylinder, and other components.
* **Check the Wheel Cylinder:** Look for any signs of leaks around the wheel cylinder. If you see brake fluid, the wheel cylinder needs to be replaced. Brake fluid leaks indicate a failing seal and compromised braking performance. Replacing the wheel cylinder is crucial for safety.
* **Inspect the Brake Shoes:** Examine the brake shoes for wear, cracks, or contamination. If the friction material is worn down to the rivets or metal backing, they need to be replaced. Also, check for uneven wear, which could indicate a problem with the adjuster or wheel cylinder.
* **Check the Springs and Hardware:** Inspect the springs and hardware for rust, corrosion, or damage. Replace any worn or damaged components.
* **Check the Backing Plate:** Clean the backing plate with a wire brush and inspect it for any damage or corrosion. Also, check the contact points where the brake shoes rub against the backing plate. These points should be clean and lubricated with high-temperature brake grease.
**7. Document the Arrangement:**
* Before you start disassembling anything, take a picture or draw a diagram of the brake components’ arrangement. This will be invaluable when you’re reassembling everything. Pay close attention to the position of the springs, clips, and adjuster mechanism.
**8. Disassemble the Brake Components:**
* **Remove the Hold-Down Springs:** Use a brake spring tool or pliers to compress and remove the hold-down springs that secure the brake shoes to the backing plate. These springs are usually located on the outside of the brake shoes and are held in place by small clips.
* **Disconnect the Return Springs:** Use a brake spring tool or pliers to disconnect the return springs that pull the brake shoes back away from the drum. These springs are typically located at the top and bottom of the brake shoes.
* **Disconnect the Parking Brake Cable:** Disconnect the parking brake cable from the brake shoe lever. This usually involves removing a clip or sliding the cable end out of the lever.
* **Remove the Adjuster Mechanism:** Carefully remove the adjuster mechanism. Note the orientation of the star wheel adjuster. The direction of the threads is important for proper adjustment.
* **Remove the Brake Shoes:** Once all the springs and cables are disconnected, you can remove the brake shoes from the backing plate. Be careful not to damage the wheel cylinder or backing plate.
**9. Clean and Lubricate:**
* **Clean the Backing Plate:** Use a wire brush and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the backing plate. Remove any rust, dirt, and debris.
* **Lubricate Contact Points:** Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the contact points on the backing plate where the brake shoes rub. This will help prevent squealing and ensure smooth operation.
* **Clean the Adjuster Mechanism:** Clean the adjuster mechanism with brake cleaner and lubricate the threads with high-temperature brake grease. Make sure the star wheel adjuster turns freely.
**10. Install the New Brake Shoes:**
* **Attach the Parking Brake Cable:** Connect the parking brake cable to the new brake shoe lever.
* **Install the Adjuster Mechanism:** Install the adjuster mechanism between the brake shoes, ensuring that the star wheel adjuster is properly oriented. Refer to your diagram or picture if needed.
* **Attach the Return Springs:** Use a brake spring tool or pliers to attach the return springs to the brake shoes. Make sure the springs are properly seated in their respective holes.
* **Install the Hold-Down Springs:** Use a brake spring tool or pliers to compress and install the hold-down springs that secure the brake shoes to the backing plate. Make sure the clips are properly aligned.
* **Double-Check Everything:** Before proceeding, double-check that all the springs, clips, and cables are properly connected and that the brake shoes are securely attached to the backing plate.
**11. Adjust the Brake Shoes:**
* **Adjust the Star Wheel Adjuster:** Use a flathead screwdriver and brake adjustment tool (if you have one) to adjust the star wheel adjuster. The goal is to adjust the brake shoes so that they are close to the drum but not dragging. Turn the adjuster until the brake shoes just start to make contact with the drum. You should feel a slight drag when you rotate the drum by hand.
* **Note:** Some vehicles have an automatic adjuster mechanism. In this case, you may not need to manually adjust the brake shoes. However, it’s still a good idea to check the adjustment and make sure the shoes are not dragging.
**12. Install the Brake Drum:**
* Carefully slide the brake drum onto the hub. If it’s difficult to install, double-check that the brake shoes are properly adjusted and that the parking brake is fully released.
* **Ensure Free Rotation:** The drum should rotate freely with a slight drag. If it’s binding or making excessive noise, recheck the adjustment of the brake shoes.
**13. Reinstall the Wheel:**
* Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
* Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
* Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the correct torque specification. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
**14. Repeat on the Other Side:**
* Repeat steps 2-13 on the other rear wheel.
**15. Test the Brakes:**
* **Pump the Brake Pedal:** Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the brake shoes and restore proper brake pedal travel.
* **Test the Parking Brake:** Engage and disengage the parking brake several times to ensure it’s working properly.
* **Test Drive:** Take the vehicle for a short test drive in a safe area. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed. Test the brakes several times to ensure they are working properly. Listen for any unusual noises.
**16. Final Inspection:**
* After the test drive, inspect the brake drums for any signs of overheating or leaks. Also, check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder and add fluid if necessary.
## Tips and Considerations
* **Work on One Side at a Time:** This allows you to use the other side as a reference if you get confused about the arrangement of the brake components.
* **Replace in Pairs:** Always replace brake shoes in pairs (both rear wheels) to ensure even braking performance.
* **Use Quality Parts:** Invest in high-quality brake shoes and hardware for optimal performance and longevity.
* **Consult a Professional:** If you’re not comfortable with any of these steps, or if you encounter any problems, consult a qualified mechanic.
* **Break-In Period:** New brake shoes need a break-in period to properly seat and achieve optimal performance. Avoid hard braking during the first few hundred miles.
* **Check Brake Fluid:** When working on your brakes, it’s a good time to check your brake fluid level and condition. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce its effectiveness. Consider flushing and replacing your brake fluid according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
* **Dispose of Old Brake Shoes Properly:** Brake shoes contain asbestos in older vehicles, which is a hazardous material. Dispose of them properly according to local regulations.
## Troubleshooting Common Problems
* **Brake Drum Stuck:** As mentioned earlier, a stuck brake drum is a common problem. Using penetrating oil, tapping with a rubber mallet, and adjusting the star wheel adjuster are usually effective solutions.
* **Squealing Brakes:** Squealing brakes can be caused by several factors, including worn brake shoes, contaminated brake shoes, or improper lubrication. Make sure the brake shoes are properly lubricated and free of contamination. If the squealing persists, the brake shoes may need to be replaced.
* **Spongy Brake Pedal:** A spongy brake pedal can be caused by air in the brake lines, a faulty master cylinder, or a leak in the brake system. Bleed the brake lines to remove any air. If the problem persists, inspect the master cylinder and brake lines for leaks.
* **Brakes Pulling to One Side:** This can be caused by uneven brake shoe wear, a stuck wheel cylinder, or a problem with the brake lines. Inspect the brake shoes and wheel cylinders for damage or wear. Also, check the brake lines for restrictions or leaks.
* **Parking Brake Not Holding:** This can be caused by a stretched parking brake cable, worn brake shoes, or a misadjusted parking brake mechanism. Adjust the parking brake cable according to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. If the problem persists, the brake shoes may need to be replaced.
Replacing your rear brake shoes is a challenging but rewarding task. By following this detailed guide and taking your time, you can save money and gain a better understanding of your vehicle’s braking system. Remember to prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any of the steps. Good luck!