Contents
Are brake drums hard to change?
While drum brakes do have a completely different layout and mode of operation than disc brakes do, they are usually no more difficult to service, and often require only a basic set of hand tools and a drum brake adjustment tool to get the job done.
Why do my rear drum brakes lock up?
One of the most common causes of one or two wheel lockup on drum brake equipped vehicles is the service and/or parking brake adjustment. If the parking brake system is not de-adjusted properly before the brake shoes are adjusted it will cause the rear brakes to engage too soon.
Do drum brakes adjust themselves?
They can adjust themselves going forward or backward. Keep in mind that even self – adjusting brakes require 1 initial adjustment. Basically if the brake shoes have to move too far before they touch the drums a pulley spins the adjustment wheel which then takes and adjusts the shoes out a bit further.
How do you know when drum brakes need replacing?
Technical Bulletins
- Inconsistent brake pedal feel. If the rear brakes are drum brakes, the driver may feel vibrations under braking.
- Hand brake feels loose. If the hand brake requires a hard yank to keep the car from rolling off, chances are the brake shoes need replacing.
- Scraping noise while braking.
How often should you change drum brakes?
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.
How do self adjusters work on drum brakes?
The adjuster is located under the wheel cylinder. The adjuster uses an adjusting screw and notched wheel and lever in the same way as the Bendix/Wagner unit. A lever is attached to one of the shoes to adjust the notched wheel. The lever is usually part of the parking brake assembly.
What tools are needed to change drum brakes?
You’ll need a drum brake retainer spring tool and a pair of drum brake spring pliers. These can often be purchased as a set. You’ll also need simple tools like a hammer, pliers, and other assorted hand tools to get everything apart.