How to Remove the Rear Brake Drums on a 2002 Ford Taurus SE

In order to work on the rear drum braking system of the 2002 Ford Taurus SE, you will need to remove the drum first. Unlike rear disc brakes (which come optional on the 2002 Taurus SE), the drum encases the rear brake shoes, hardware and wheel cylinder. Taking off the drums can impose certain challenges if the shoes have worn a ridge on the interior edge of the drum. Having the knowledge of how rear drum brakes work will greatly increase your chances of success.

Instructions

1

Place a tire chock in front of one of the front tires with the Taurus parked on a flat surface suitable for lifting and supporting the vehicle.

2

Crack the rear lug nuts loose on the rear tires 1/4 turn (only) with the wheel nut wrench.

3

Hoist the rear end of the Taurus with a car jack and then support it onto jack stands in a safe and suitable location (rear frame rails).

4

Remove the lug nuts and wheels.

5

Attempt to pull the drums off by hands at first.

6

Spray penetrating lubricant onto the mating surface of the drum's center hole and the hub. Allow a few minutes for the spray to penetrate.

7

Strike the drum on the facing of the drum's surface with a hammer to shock it loose from the hub assembly. Turn the drum 1/4 turn and strike it again in a different location if necessary. Once the drum has separated from the hub and still does not come off freely, proceed to Step 8, if necessary.

8

Remove the brake tube-to-axle bracket with a ratchet and socket.

9

Use a slotted screwdriver to pry off the rubber brake adjusting portal plug.

10

Insert a small screwdriver to depress the brake adjuster lever and then while holding the lever away from the adjuster, use the brake adjusting spoon to turn the star-wheel adjusting mechanism. This will back the shoes away from the brake drum. Turn the wheel four to five times and try to spin the drum by hand. If it gets tighter, turn the direction of the star-wheel until it is loose enough to remove the drum.