Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks
* Jack and jack stands (safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack)
* Lug wrench
* Socket set (various sizes)
* Wheel cylinder pliers (for compressing the wheel cylinders)
* C-clamp (optional, but helpful for compressing wheel cylinders)
* Brake cleaner
* Wire brush
* Grease
* New brake shoes, springs, and hardware (often sold as a kit)
* Possibly a drum removal tool (if the drum is difficult to remove)
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels. Raise the rear of the car using the jack and secure it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Drum: The drum might be stuck due to rust. Try tapping gently around the circumference with a rubber mallet. If it's really stuck, you might need a drum removal tool to carefully pry it off. Be careful not to damage the drum.
4. Inspect the Components: Once the drum is off, carefully inspect the entire brake assembly. Note the position of all springs, adjusters, and other parts. Take pictures if needed. This will help during reassembly.
5. Clean the Components: Thoroughly clean all parts with brake cleaner. Use a wire brush to remove any rust or debris.
6. Compress the Wheel Cylinders: Using wheel cylinder pliers or a C-clamp, carefully compress the wheel cylinders. This is essential to allow the new shoes to fit. Be gentle to avoid damaging the cylinders.
7. Install the New Brake Shoes: Install the new brake shoes, ensuring they are seated correctly in the wheel cylinder and against the backing plate.
8. Install the Springs and Hardware: Refer to your diagrams or pictures and carefully install all springs and other hardware, matching their original positions. Pay close attention to the proper orientation of each part. The spring arrangement varies slightly by car.
9. Adjust the Brake Shoes: Using the star adjuster (if present), adjust the shoes so they make slight contact with the drum. You should be able to rotate the drum but feel resistance. This is very important and needs to be done correctly to prevent uneven wear.
10. Reinstall the Drum: Carefully install the drum. It should slide on easily.
11. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on, and tighten the lug nuts.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the car from the jack stands.
13. Test the Brakes: Before driving, carefully pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are working properly. Then, carefully test drive the car, making sure the brakes respond correctly. If there is any spongy feeling, pulling to one side, or other issues, you might have missed a step or damaged something during the process.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: After working on any part of the braking system, it's often recommended to bleed the brakes to remove any air that might have gotten into the lines. This is usually done at the bleeder valve on each caliper or wheel cylinder using a wrench and a helper to pump the brake pedal.
* Repair Manual: Refer to a repair manual specific to your 2000 Pontiac Sunfire for detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other important information.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brake repairs are critical for safety, and mistakes can have serious consequences.
This is a general guide and may not cover every detail specific to your vehicle. Always prioritize safety and consult a repair manual before attempting this repair.
