How to Change Car Brake Shoes

Brake shoes are used in drum brakes, which are often used on the rear wheels of cars, especially larger vehicles. Changing brake shoes is more complicated than changing the brake pads on disc brakes, as there are multiple springs and other objects you must disconnect on the brake drum. Consult an automotive guide or mechanic before you try to change brake shoes yourself, in case the process varies for your car. Like pads, brake shoes should always be changed in pairs on both sides.

Instructions

1

Raise the end of the car on jack stands, and remove the wheel. Loosening the jug nuts before lifting the car will make it easier to remove the wheel.

2

Remove the brake drum; if it is held on with pressed metal washers, cut them off with a good cutting tool. Mark the relationship between the drum and axle with chalk or washable paint, and release the parking brake; then slip the drum off.

3

Disconnect the hub and bearing assembly from the axle by removing the four retaining bolts. This isn't a mandatory step, but it will make it easier to reach the shoes.

4

Clean the entire assembly with brake cleaner spray. Never blow brake dust away with compressed air. Place a drain pan under the assembly to catch any dripping residue.

5

Disconnect the springs from the trailing shoe using pliers, starting with the spring on the adjuster level; then remove the retractor spring from each shoe. Remove the trailing shoe with the adjuster level, then the adjuster screw assembly, then the leading shoe. Separate the trailing shoe from the parking brake lever.

6

Clean the backing plate and the adjuster screw assembly. Use a high-temperature grease to lubricate the backing plate's shoe contact areas, and the adjuster screw assembly's threads and socket end.

7

Connect the replacement trailing shoe to the parking brake lever, place it on the backing plate, and connect the retractor spring to its hole on the shoe. Reinstall the adjuster screw assembly with the trailing shoe, then install the adjuster level.

8

Place the new leading shoe on the backing plate, and see that it engages with the adjuster screw assembly. Connect the retractor spring to the trailing shoe. Connect the actuator spring to the leading shoe, and stretch it to connect to the adjuster level.

9

Reinstall the brake drum, turning the star wheel on the adjuster screw so the drum slips onto the shoes without rubbing them. Attach the wheels, and lower the car after changing the brakes on both sides.