1. Gather Tools and Materials:
- New brake shoes (Ensure they're the correct ones for your vehicle).
- C-Clamp
- Flat-head screwdriver
- 10mm and 17mm wrench or socket set
- Brake fluid
- Safety glasses and gloves
2. Prepare Your Vehicle:
- Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts of the rear wheels but do not remove them.
3. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use a jack to safely lift the rear of your vehicle off the ground.
- Make sure to use jack stands to support the vehicle and ensure it's stable.
4. Remove the Rear Wheels:
- Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
5. Remove the Brake Drum:
- Locate the star-shaped adjuster cap behind the wheel lug nut area.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the cap.
- Adjuster nut may be exposed after removing the cap, turn counterclockwise to back the assembly off (may not be exposed, continue to step 6).
- Use the 17mm wrench or socket to loosen the axle nut; DO NOT remove the nut.
- Gently tap the brake drum using a mallet or hammer until it comes loose from the hub.
- Slide the brake drum off the wheel studs.
6. Inspect Brake Components:
- Check the brake shoes, linings, and hardware for wear or damage.
- If necessary, replace any worn or damaged components.
7. Install New Brake Shoes:
- Position the new brake shoes into place. Make sure they fit correctly.
- Attach the parking brake lever to the new shoes.
- Attach the return springs and retainers.
- Adjust the brake shoes by turning the adjuster while checking the gap between the shoe and drum face. Adjust so that the gap is minimal but the drum can still move freely.
- Retighten the adjuster nut if previously exposed.
8. Reinstall the Brake Drum:
- Slide the brake drum back over the brake shoes and hub.
- Tighten the axle nut to secure the drum.
9. Reinstall the Rear Wheels:
- Put the wheels back onto the wheel studs.
- Tighten the lug nuts by hand until they are snug.
10. Lower the Vehicle:
- Slowly lower the vehicle with the jack until it is back on the ground.
- Remove the jack stands and fully tighten the lug nuts.
11. Test the Brakes:
- Gently depress the brake pedal a few times to allow the brake shoes to adjust and seat.
- Test the brakes by driving at low speeds and applying the brakes gradually to ensure they are functioning properly.
Remember, if you're uncomfortable performing this task or do not have the necessary tools or experience, it's best to have the brake shoes replaced by a qualified mechanic to ensure safety and proper installation.
