How to Remove Drums From a Ford Windstar

The Ford Windstar van uses drum brakes on the rear of some models that must be removed in order to access the brake shoes should service or replacement be necessary. The drums do not wear much under normal conditions, but excessive wear can scar or damage the drums, requiring replacement of the entire drum. Replacement drums are available from Ford or through most major auto parts stores.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts on the rear of your Windstar with a lug wrench or socket and breaker bar. Do not take the lug nuts off the studs yet.

2

Position a jack under the van and raise it, lifting the van until the tire is off the ground. Slide a set of jack stands under the rear axle of the van and lower the jack, allowing the van to settle onto the stands.

3

Remove the lug nuts, the tire and the wheel from the van. Set them both aside for later.

4

Visually check the base of the wheel studs where they come through the brake drum. There may be a retaining clip that is installed in the factory to retain the drum during assembly. Pry the ring off with a flat screwdriver and discard it.

5

Pull the drum straight out from the axle until it clears the brake shoes, hub and wheel studs.