Brake Drum: Service and Repair
Brake DrumSpecial Tool(s):
Removal and Installation
WARNING: Asbestos fiber dust can be present on brake and clutch assemblies and is hazardous to health if inhaled.
Brake and clutch assemblies must be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner recommended for use with asbestos fibers, such as a brake/clutch/service vacuum. The bag must be labeled per the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) instructions, sealed and the trash hauler notified as to the bag's contents.
WARNING: If a vacuum suitable for asbestos is not available, cleaning must be done wet. If dust generation is still possible, technicians must wear government-approved toxic dust purifying respirators.
OSHA requires areas where asbestos dust generation is possible to be isolated and posted with warning signs. Only technicians performing brake or clutch repair are to be present in the area.
WARNING: To reduce the possibility of uneven braking, always install new rear brake shoes and linings at both ends of an axle.
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Maintenance/Service and Repair.
2. CAUTION: Use of a brake drum puller or a torch is not recommended. Brake drum distortion can result.
NOTE: If the brake drum is rusted to the axle shaft pilot diameter, tap the center of the brake drum between the wheel studs.
Remove the brake drum.
3. NOTE: If brake drums will not come off, follow these steps.
Loosen the brake shoe adjusting screw nut.
1. Using a screwdriver, move the brake shoe adjusting lever off the brake adjuster screw.
2. NOTE: Move the adjustment tool handle downward to loosen the brake shoe adjusting screw nut.
Using a suitable tool, loosen the brake shoe adjusting screw nut.
4. Using the special tool, measure the brake drum inside diameter.
Install a new brake drum if the maximum inside diameter exceeds the specification molded into the brake drum.
5. NOTE: If adjusting the rear brakes, refer to Brake Shoe Adjustment - Drums Removed.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.