How to Install Brake Shoes
Automotive drum braking systems use curved shoes that are pushed against the inside drum surface by a hydraulic wheel cylinder. The shoe material can wear quickly, and will eventually require replacement. The average backyard mechanic can replace a pair of shoes in about 30 minutes.
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Instructions
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1
Raise the vehicle with the floor jack and place it onto the jack stands. The stands should be oriented onto the frame, not suspension parts.
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2
Remove the wheels by turning the lug nuts in a counterclockwise direction. Set the wheels away from the vehicle.
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3
Remove the drum by turning the keeper bolt in a counterclockwise direction, then pulling on the drum firmly. Some debris and dust may fall from the inside of the drum during removal.
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4
Remove the long brake springs with the screwdriver by pressing the head into the spring hook and using leverage to remove it from the shoe.
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5
Remove the primary shoe spring bolt (center of the shoe) by turning it counterclockwise. The shoe will pull free once the bolt is removed.
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6
Replace the old shoe with a new unit and press it into the brake assembly. Secure the shoe with the spring bolt by turning it clockwise. Do not overtighten the spring bolt. Reattach the long springs by positioning them onto the screwdriver and using leverage to slide the hook back onto the shoe's spring hook.
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7
Repeat steps 4 through 6 on the opposite shoe, then replace the drum by pushing it over the shoes and back onto the brake. Secure the keeper bolt by turning it clockwise.
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8
Repeat steps 3 through 7 for the opposite wheel's brake.
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9
Replace the wheels by turning the lug nuts in a clockwise direction, in an alternating pattern. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands with the floor jack.
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Tips & Warnings
It is advisable to resurface the interior of the drums when replacing the shoes, for a better meshing of the surfaces. It is a good idea to bleed the brake lines after replacing parts.
Use caution when working underneath a vehicle.
