- Car jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Pry bar
- Brake grease
- New brake shoes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Park the vehicle in a safe location and turn off the engine.
Engage the parking brake and chock the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
Step 2: Raise one of the rear wheels off of the ground using a car jack.
Place a jack stand under the vehicle's frame near the wheel to support the vehicle while you are working. Repeat the process for the other rear wheel.
Step 3: Locate the brake drum behind the wheel.
The drum will be held in place by four lug nuts.
Step 4: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Place the lug nuts in a safe place so that you do not lose them.
Step 5: Inspect the brake drum.
Look for any signs of wear or damage. If the drum is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Step 6: Remove the two bolts that hold the brake shoes in place.
The bolts are located at the bottom of the brake backing plate.
Step 7: Remove the brake shoes.
Use a pry bar to pry the brake shoes away from the brake backing plate.
Step 8: Clean the brake backing plate.
Use a wire brush to clean the brake backing plate. This will help to ensure that the new brake shoes make good contact with the backing plate.
Step 9: Apply brake grease to the new brake shoes.
Apply a small amount of brake grease to the back of the brake shoes. This will help to prevent the shoes from squeaking.
Step 10: Install the new brake shoes.
Place the new brake shoes in position and insert the two bolts that hold them in place.
Step 11: Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts.
Tighten the lug nuts until they are snug.
Step 12: Lower the vehicle using the car jack.
Remove the jack stands.
Step 13: Repeat the process on the other rear wheel.
Step 14: Test the brakes before driving the car.
Pump the brake pedal several times to make sure that the brakes are working properly.
Here are some additional tips for changing the rear brakes shoes in a 4 door 1997 Toyota RAV4:
- Be sure to use the correct brake shoes for your vehicle.
- If you are not comfortable working on brakes, you can have the work done by a qualified mechanic.
- Always wear eye protection and gloves when working on brakes.
