When should drum brakes be replaced?
The brake drums on your car are built to last for about 200,000 miles. In some cases, the drums will wear out sooner due to worn out internal components that put more strain on the drum. As your brake drums begin to wear down, they will actually become smaller.
What would cause a rear wheel to lock up?
Brake shoe contamination can be the cause of rear wheel lockup. If an axle seal or wheel cylinder leaks and contaminates the brake shoe(s) it changes the coefficient of friction. If it is mild contamination then the friction is increased while severe contamination will cause a reduction in friction (See Figure 61.9).
What’s the best way to remove a brake drum?
Use a screwdriver to attach the brake drum puller’s screw tightly. Tighten the screw until the brake drum puller is securely fastened around the brake drum. Do not over-tighten the screw on the brake drum puller. Knock the back of the brake drum lightly with a hammer. Tap the hammer against the brake drum with an outward motion.
What happens when you change the drum on a car?
Most drum brakes on cars and other common vehicles are hydraulically powered. If there is a leak in the hydraulic system, you may notice fluid inside the drum and on the brake shoes. Usually, this is accompanied by decreased brake performance. If necessary, replace the leaky wheel cylinder.
How is a brake drum puller attached to a wheel?
Place each of the brake drum puller’s 3 hooks evenly around the brake drum’s flange. Ensure that the screw in the middle of the brake drum puller lies above the middle of the wheel hub. Use a screwdriver to attach the brake drum puller’s screw tightly. Tighten the screw until the brake drum puller is securely fastened around the brake drum.
What’s the best way to remove a brake nut?
Use your tire iron to finish removing the loosened lug nuts from their bolts. If necessary, remove the hubcap and use it as a convenient “dish” or “plate” to hold your lug nuts. When all the lug nuts are off, pull the tire away from its mounting.
When to replace brake drums?
Most car mechanics and makers say you should replace your car’s drum brake lining when it has worn down to about 1/8 inches or less. You can tell when this happens by measuring the lining with a tape measure. You should plan on having to replace them about every 12,000 miles, or a year of use, whichever comes first.
When to change your brake drums?
A brake drum with heat cracks, gouges severe hot spots, or that exceeds the specification limit should be discarded and replaced with a new drum. If you are within spec, these drums can be machined or “turned” at a machine shop.
How do you take rear brake drum off?
Unscrew the brake drum if needed. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the brake drum to the wheel. Draw the brake drum forcefully towards you. Use a screwdriver and rubber mallet or a brake drum puller to take the drum off of the wheel if you are unable to remove the drum by unscrewing it and pulling it.
How do you replace rear drum brakes?
Steps Put on an asbestos respirator. Remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts. Spray the hub of the wheel with a penetrating oil such as PB Blaster. Grab the brake drum by the edges and pull it off. Note: some brake drums are held on with screws so you will need to remove those first. Once the drum is off take a look at it.
