- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Flat head screwdriver
- Wire brush
- C-clamp
- Brake fluid
- Brake cleaner
- New brake shoes
- New brake hardware (if needed)
Instructions:
1.) Prepare your vehicle. Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down. Jack up your vehicle and support it on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.
2.) Remove the old brake shoes. Use a flat head screwdriver to pry off the brake drum dust cover. Locate the brake shoe hold-down springs and remove them using a pair of pliers. Then, remove the brake shoes by pulling them straight up and off the brake backing plate.
3.) Clean the brake backing plate. Use a wire brush to clean the brake backing plate. Remove any dirt, grease, or rust. This will help the new brake shoes to make good contact with the backing plate.
4.) Install the new brake shoes. Place the new brake shoes on the brake backing plate. Make sure that the brake shoes are properly seated in the slots. Install the new brake shoe hold-down springs and secure them in place with a pair of pliers.
5.) Adjust the brake shoes. Use a C-clamp to adjust the brake shoes. Tighten the C-clamp until the brake shoes are snug against the brake drum. Release the C-clamp and check that the brake shoes are still snug.
6.) Install the brake drum and wheel. Place the brake drum over the brake shoes. Install the lug nuts and tighten them in a star pattern. Lower your vehicle off the jack stands and remove the jack.
7.) Test the brakes. Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the new brake shoes. Then, go for a test drive and test the brakes. Make sure that the brakes work properly before driving your car.
8.) Check the brake fluid level. The brake fluid level may have dropped when you replaced the brake shoes. Check the brake fluid level and add brake fluid if necessary.
