1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
3. Raise the rear of the vehicle with floor jacks and support it on jack stands.
4. Remove the lug nuts and wheels.
5. Locate the brake drum behind the wheel rim.
6. Use a screwdriver to pry off the dust cap that covers the brake shoes.
7. Inspect the brake shoes and drums for wear or damage.
8. Replace the brake shoes if they are worn or damaged.
9. Use a C-clamp to compress the brake piston back into the caliper.
10. Reinstall the dust cap and the wheel.
11. Repeat steps 3-10 on the other rear wheel.
12. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove them.
13. Test the brakes by applying them gradually and firmly.
Special considerations for replacing rear brake shoes on a 1997 Ford E350:
• Always inspect the brake drums for wear and damage before replacing the brake shoes.
• Brake drums that are worn or damaged will not grip the brake shoes properly, and can cause the brakes to drag and overheat.
• Replacing the brake shoes is a relatively simple process, but if you are not comfortable doing so, you may want to have the work done by a qualified mechanic.
Tools and materials required to replace rear brake shoes on a 1997 Ford E350:
• Lug wrench
• Floor jacks
• Jack stands
• Screwdriver
• Replacement brake shoes and brake drums (if necessary)
• C-clamp
