How can you tell if your drum brakes need changing?
Drum brakes have two common configurations on the rear axle; combined handbrake and foot brake shoes and handbrake only shoes. Handbrake only shoes are often fitted inside the disc rotor, like standard drum brakes, and are normally sealed away. This makes visually checking for wear and tear not easy.
When do you press on the brake drums?
Over time, the drums and shoes on the rear part of a vehicle will have to do a lot of work and may begin to show some signs of wear. When the brake pedal on your car is pushed, the brake shoes on the rear of the car will press against the brake drums to bring the vehicle to a stop. The drums are only used when the brakes of a car are applied.
How much does it cost to replace rear drum brakes?
Replacing rear drum brakes (shoes, drums and hardware) in an average car in a repair shop costs from $420 to $750 per axle. Brakes are replaced on both sides at the same time. Drum brake in a car. If you plan on changing your drum brakes yourself, make sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.
Are there front or rear drum brakes on a car?
The front and rear brakes on a car take a lot of abuse over time. On most older vehicles, the front brakes will be discs, while the rear ones will be drums. The drum brakes on a car are an essential part of having maximum braking power. Over time, the drums and shoes on the rear part of a vehicle will have to do a lot of work…
How do you replace drum brakes?
Adjust the brakes through the drum or through the backing plate till a slight drag on the brake drum is felt. Reinstall the tire. Check brake adjustment and readjust as needed to have a slight drag on the drum. Do not over tighten the brakes or they could lock up.
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.
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.
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.