How to Replace the Brake Shoes on the Rear Wheels

2025 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2025-01-24 13:28

One of the most important aspects of a car for safety is the ability to stop. Replacing the brake blocks on the rear wheels ensures that this feature is always at its best, especially in emergency situations. You can learn how to change them yourself to save money and at the same time better understand how a car works. Even a beginner can learn how to change drum brake shoes if he has the right tools at his disposal.

Steps

Step 1. Park your car in a shady, dry area where you have access to your tools

Give yourself plenty of time to get the job done.

Step 2. Use wedges to lock the front wheels so the car won't roll

Step 3. Fully release the handbrake

Step 4. Loosen the wheel bolts with a wrench

Do this while the car is still on the ground.

Step 5. Raise the rear end of the car with the jack provided with the spare wheel kit or with a hydraulic one

Put jacks in suitable places on the underbody and make the car lean on them.

Step 6. Remove the wheel

Step 7. Remove the drum-shaped cover protecting the brakes so you will have access to the various elements

Step 8. Inspect the brakes for damage or wear

If the friction material of the shoes is less than 32 mm thick, the shoes must be replaced.

Step 9. Use the specific tool to detach the return spring

It may not be easy as the spring is very powerful. Wear safety goggles in case the spring suddenly "clicks".

Step 10. Put on gloves and grab the back of the locking pin

Insert the tool to remove the shoes on the pin of the spring. Apply pressure as you turn the tool counterclockwise to release the pin and spring.

Step 11. Remove the blocks and jaws

Step 12. Check the brake cylinder for leaks before installing the new shoes

Step 13. Fit the new shoes to the jaws

Step 14. Install the new blocks with the old shoes only if they are in good condition

Step 15. Reattach the return spring

Step 16. Adjust the brakes before putting the wheel back on

Most of the brakes are self-adjusting, but they must always be adjusted in the beginning.

Step 17. Refit the drum to the brake system

Step 18. Put the wheel back in place

Remove the jacks and lower the car.

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