1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, and apply the parking brake. This will help to prevent the vehicle from rolling while you are working.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels. Do not remove the lug nuts completely, just loosen them until they are almost ready to come off.
3. Chock the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
4. Jack up the rear of the vehicle until the wheels are off the ground. Support the vehicle securely with jack stands before crawling under the vehicle.
5. Remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
6. Locate the brake drum. It is a circular metal piece that is attached to the rear axle.
7. Remove the cotter pin that holds the brake drum in place. The cotter pin is located on the bottom of the brake drum and is shaped like a small "C".
8. Pull the brake drum off of the wheel hub. It may be necessary to use a pry bar or hammer to loosen the brake drum if it is rusted on.
9. Inspect the brake components. Before reassembling the brakes, take a moment to inspect the brake pads, shoes, springs, and wheel cylinder for any wear or damage.
10. Reassemble the brakes in reverse order. Make sure to use new cotter pins to secure the brake drums in place.
11. Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and replace the wheels.
