How to Replace Your Drum Brakes in 7 Steps

Drum brakes use friction caused by a set of shoes or pads that press outward against a rotating bowl-shaped part called a brake drum. Drum brakes are essential for both safety and performance in vehicles. They provide the necessary stopping power, and any signs of wear, such as squealing noises or poor braking response, indicate that it may be time for a replacement. 

This blog will guide you through the process of replacing your drum brakes in seven straightforward steps, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Also, where you can find quality brake drums in Canada within your budget.

Tools and Materials Required To Replace Your Drum Brakes

Before starting the replacement process, you must know the important tools that you will need for this purpose. So, let’s first gather the following tools and materials:

  • Jack: To lift the vehicle safely.
  • Lug wrench: For loosening and tightening the lug nuts of your car.
  • Brake cleaner: To easily clean components.
  • New brake shoes: Important component for the replacement.
  • Spring tool: To remove and install springs.
  • Gloves and safety glasses: For personal protection.

Replace Your Drum Brakes in 7 Steps Easy Guide

Drum brakes look complex but they are not difficult to replace and maintain. You can easily replace drum brakes in these seven easy steps: 

Step 1: Lift Your Vehicle

To begin, you need to safely lift your vehicle and loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be replacing the drum brakes. For your ease, you can use a jack to lift the car off the ground. This will help you balance the vehicle and you can do your work safely. Finally, remove the wheels to access the drum brakes.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Drum

Next, remove the brake drum from the wheel hub. Look for any retaining screws that may be holding the drum in place and remove them.

If the drum is stuck, tap it gently with a hammer to loosen it. Once it is easily movable, slide the drum off carefully to expose the brake components.

Step 3: Inspect and Clean

Once the drum is removed, it's important to inspect and clean all components. Looking to optimize your brake system’s performance? Learn why regular brake inspection is key in our blog on how to conduct a thorough brake inspection. You should check both the drum and brake shoes for signs of wear or damage. Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean all accessible parts, removing dust and debris that could affect performance.

Step 4: Remove Old Brake Shoes

Now it's time to take out the old brake shoes. Take a brake spring tool to relieve tension from the springs connected to the shoes.

Carefully remove any springs, clips, and old shoes without damaging surrounding components.

Step 5: Install New Brake Shoes

Once you remove the old shoes install the new ones. To install the new shoes you will position each on the backing plate in alignment with their respective locations. Then, attach springs securely and ensure that everything is adjusted properly for optimal performance.

Step 6: Reassemble and Replace the Drum

Slide the brake drum back into place over the new shoes. Once they are placed, check and reinstall any screws or clips that were previously removed to secure the drum.

Step 7: Test and Adjust

Finally, test your new brake setup. Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts securely.

After completing this process lower your vehicle back to ground level.

Note: Press down on the brake pedal several times to ensure proper engagement of new shoes and adjust if necessary. If you need new drum brakes at affordable prices, explore the widest collection of Drum brakes in Canada at GeoBrakes and enjoy free shipping on orders above $99.
Want to know how to ensure your vehicle’s safety? Learn when it’s safe to drive with warped rotors in our blog post on rotor issues.

Bottom Line:

Replacing your drum brakes involves a systematic approach that ensures safety and functionality. By following these seven steps, you can maintain your vehicle's braking system effectively. As you know regular brake maintenance is vital for safe driving. if you're uncertain at any stage of this process, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure everything is done correctly. 

You might be worried about Brake drum prices in Canada. Let me tell you that drum brakes have longer service life than disc brakes but lower manufacturing costs. You can find Quality brake drums in Canada for any make and model at GeoBrakes.