1. Safety First:
* Engage the parking brake firmly. This is crucial to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Chock the front wheels. Additional safety precaution to prevent movement.
* Wear safety glasses. Brake dust can irritate your eyes.
* Use jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Prepare the Brake Drum:
* Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel. Don't remove them completely yet.
* Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and securely support it with jack stands.
* Remove the wheel. Unscrew the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
3. Access the Brake Drum:
* Inspect the drum's surface. You might see a small inspection hole or some retainer clips that may need to be removed or compressed before removal.
* The drum may be stuck. Rust and corrosion are common culprits.
4. Removing the Drum:
* Try tapping the drum gently. Use a rubber mallet or a piece of wood between the mallet and the drum to avoid damaging it. Tap around the circumference to loosen it.
* If tapping doesn't work, you may need to use a drum puller. These tools are specifically designed for this task and are available at most auto parts stores. Follow the instructions that come with the puller carefully. It usually involves screwing the puller onto the drum's studs and then tightening it to pull the drum away from the backing plate.
* If the drum is severely rusted, you may need to apply penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) to the area where the drum contacts the backing plate, and let it sit for some time before trying to remove it again. This can significantly help loosen the drum.
* Once the drum is loose, carefully pull it off the axle. Be aware that there might be some resistance.
5. Inspect the Brake Components:
* Once the drum is off, inspect the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and other components for wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
Important Considerations:
* The 1991 Tempo might have self-adjusting brakes. If you need to remove the brake shoes, be aware that the self-adjuster mechanisms might require special attention during reassembly to ensure proper adjustment. Your repair manual will have details on how to handle the self-adjusters.
* If you're unfamiliar with brake systems, it's highly recommended you consult a professional mechanic. Improperly working brakes are extremely dangerous.
Remember to reverse the process to reinstall the brake drum. Always refer to your vehicle's specific repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications. This is a general guide and variations may exist based on specific model variations within the 1991 Ford Tempo lineup.
