How to Pull the Brake Drums in a 1995 Dodge Caravan

Removing the brake drums from the rear of your 1995 Dodge Caravan will allow you to access the brake shoes, hardware and inspect the drum itself. Brake drums are only used on the rear of the Caravan, and if replacement is necessary, drums and other components of the system are available from most major parts retailers or through the Dodge dealer network.

Things You'll Need

• Lug wrench
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Flat screwdriver

Instructions

1. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels of the van with a lug wrench. Do not take the lug nuts off the studs yet or the wheel might not properly support the van.

2. Position a jack under the center of the rear axle, and raise the van until both rear tires are off the ground. Position a set of jack stands under the axle on the outboard edge on each end. Lower the jack until the van is resting on the stands.

3. Remove the lug nuts from the wheel studs, then pull the wheel and tire off the van. If you are pulling both drums, repeat on the opposite side.

4. Inspect the wheel studs where they pass through the drum. In some cases, there will be a locking ring on one of the studs. Pry the ring loose with a flat screwdriver, and discard it.

5. Grasp the drum at the three o'clock and nine o'clock positions, and pull it straight toward you. Repeat the process on the opposite side.

References

• "Dodge Caravan Factory Service Manual"; Chrysler Motor Corp.; 1995