How to Change the Drum Brakes on a Bronco

The Ford Bronco was manufactured with a combination of four wheel or rear-only drum brakes, which have routine maintenance parts that must be regularly inspected and repaired, if necessary. The drum style of braking system was standardized; the parts on one brake are identical to the others.

Instructions

1

Raise the truck at the rear wheel by placing the jack head underneath a frame rail, then pumping the lever until the wheel is in the air. Support the jack with the jack stand in the same relative location.

2

Remove the wheel by turning all the lug nuts counterclockwise, then pulling the wheel free of the hub. Set the wheel aside, away from the work area.

3

Remove the drum from the brake assembly by pulling it directly out. (Some models have keeper bolts holding the drum in place; these bolts are on the face of the drum and removed by turning counterclockwise.)

4

Remove the brake shoes by levering the long springs from the shoe hooks with a screwdriver or brake tool. Turn the primary spring bolt counterclockwise, and pull the shoe directly away from the backing plate. (Some models have adjustment bolts that come out as well.) Take this opportunity to inspect the wheel cylinder for leaks.

5

Replace the shoes with new units by sliding them into position, and turning the primary spring bolt clockwise. Place the adjustment bolt between the shoes, if applicable. Lever the long springs back onto the shoe hooks.

6

Resurface or replace the drum and slide it back over the brake assembly, securing any keeper bolts if necessary. Replace the wheel by turning the lug nuts clockwise, in an alternating pattern. Remove the jack stand and lower the truck.

7

Repeat the entire process on the opposite brake.