What makes the brake shoe move off the drum when the brake is not being applied?
The rear brake shoe should move out when the parking brake is set, and move back when the parking brake is released. If the parking brake cable is rusted, kinked, or otherwise damaged, the rear brake shoe will not return when the parking brake is released, causing the rear shoe to drag on the drum.
How long do brake drum shoes last?
The housing of drum brakes is designed to be operable typically for around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, while the shoes are meant to last for 40,000 miles.
How to adjust rear drum brake shoes to remove drums?
The adjuster plate will only allow you to turn the adjuster wheel in one direction (tightening) – as you’re looking at the adjuster wheel from the access hole, this would be turning the wheel in an upward direction. To loosen the brakes, you need to turn the adjuster wheel downward but the adjuster plate won’t let this happen.
What’s the best way to remove brake shoes?
Use a pair of pliers to pull back the shoes’ return springs. Next, use a brake spring tool to remove the hold-down pins and springs. At this point, some brake shoes will be able to be removed. If not, you may need to use a screwdriver to disconnect the brake cable.
Where is the adjuster screw on a brake drum?
Turn the brake drum so that the access hole is aligned with the drum’s adjuster screw. The adjuster screw is large and slotted, and is located beneath just beneath the centerline that runs horizontally across the back of the drum. Turn the adjuster screw counterclockwise until it comes to a halt.
What should I do if my brake drum is leaking?
If there is a leak in the hydraulic system, you may notice fluid inside the drum and on the brake shoes. Usually, this is accompanied by decreased brake performance. If necessary, replace the leaky wheel cylinder. Loosen the brake line connected to it, then loosen the bolts at the rear of the cylinder.