Are you experiencing issues with your rear brake drums? Wondering what could be causing them to be out of round or crooked? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the world of brake drum problems and show you how you can tackle them on your own.
From understanding the effects of concave or bell-mouthed drums on the brake system to identifying the signs of bad brake drums, we’ll cover it all. We’ll even address common questions like whether Napa can turn brake drums and the cost of machining brake discs. So, if you’re ready to dive in and take control of your brake drum woes, let’s get started!
But wait, there’s more! We’ll also explore rear brake imbalance, the cost of replacing brake drums, the importance of turning brake drums, and the proper way to adjust and align drum brakes. Plus, we’ll touch on topics like self-adjusting rear brakes, checking brake imbalance, fixing warped brake drums, and understanding the problem of being out of round. So, buckle up and get ready to become a brake drum expert. Don’t let those braking issues put a dent in your driving experience any longer – let’s solve them together!
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
How to Fix a Stubborn Rear Brake Drum That’s Feeling a Bit Unruly
Is your car’s rear brake drum acting like a crooked wheel on a shopping cart, making your drive bumpy and erratic? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this DIY guide, we’ll show you how to bring that out-of-round brake drum back in line and restore the smoothness to your ride. So grab your tools and let’s get started!
Checking the Out-of-Roundness
First things first, we need to determine if your rear brake drum is actually out-of-round. Put your car in neutral, secure it with wheel chocks, and jack up the rear wheels. Once the wheels are off the ground, give each brake drum a spin. Listen closely for any rubbing, scraping, or uneven sounds. If you feel like you’re at a lopsided rollercoaster, chances are you’ve got an out-of-round brake drum.
Gathering the Tools of the Trade
To tackle this DIY adventure, you’ll need a few trusty tools by your side. Grab a jack, lug wrench, brake cleaner, sandpaper, a micrometer (or a brake drum measuring tool), and a pair of safety goggles. Don’t forget to put on some catchy tunes – this is a party, after all!
Step-by-Step: Getting That Drum in Shape
1. Remove the Brake Drum
Start by loosening the lug nuts of the rear wheel. Then, jack up the car and secure it on jack stands. Now that you’re in position, remove the lug nuts and gently take off the rear wheel. You’ll be face to face with your troublesome brake drum.
2. Inspect and Clean
Take a moment to inspect the drum for any cracks, deep grooves, or excessive wear. If your brake drum looks like it’s been through a WWE wrestling match, it might be time to consider a replacement. Assuming you’ve got a bruised but fixable drum, grab your brake cleaner and give it a thorough cleaning. Remember, cleanliness is next to brake-line-ness!
3. Measure the Roundness
Use your micrometer or brake drum measuring tool to measure the drum’s roundness. Rotate the drum and take several measurements at different points. If there’s more than 0.2 mm of roundness variation, it’s time to make it flat again.
4. Smooth It Out
Now comes the fun part: smoothing out those rough edges. Grab your sandpaper and start sanding down any high spots on the drum surface. Work your way around evenly until you achieve a nice, flat surface. Be patient and cautious – there’s no need to rush this dance!
5. Remember the Rule of Thumb
Measure the brake drum after each sanding pass to track your progress. Aim for a roundness variation of less than 0.2 mm. And remember, as the great mechanics say, “measure twice, sand once!”
6. Reassemble and Find Your Rhythm
With your brake drum now back in shape, it’s time to reassemble the rear wheel, lower your vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts. Carefully lower the jack until your car is back on all fours. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done and enjoy the silky smooth ride that awaits you.
Wrapping Up
With this step-by-step guide, you’ve learned how to wrangle an out-of-round rear brake drum and restore harmony to your driving experience. Remember, safety should always come first, so if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Thanks for joining us on this brake drum adventure, and here’s to many miles of smooth sailing!
Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only. Proceed with caution, use appropriate safety measures, and consult a professional if needed.
FAQ: How to DIY Out of Round Rear Brake Drum Crooked
What effect does an excessive concave or a bell mouthed drum have on the brake system?
An excessive concave or bell mouthed drum can have a detrimental effect on the brake system. It can cause uneven braking, poor performance, and increased wear on brake components. This can compromise the safety of your vehicle and result in longer stopping distances. So, it’s essential to address this issue promptly.
What causes out of round brake drums?
Out of round brake drums can be caused by a variety of factors. Overheating, prolonged use, worn brake shoe linings, excessive wear and tear, or improper installation can all contribute to this problem. It’s important to understand the root cause to effectively address the issue.
How do you know if your brake drums are bad?
There are a few signs that can indicate your brake drums are bad. If you experience vibrations while braking, hear scraping or grinding noises, notice uneven wear on your brake shoes, or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal, these are all potential indicators of bad brake drums. It’s crucial to pay attention to these signs and take action.
Does Napa turn brake drums?
Yes, Napa can turn brake drums. Napa offers brake drum turning services as part of their comprehensive range of automotive services. They have skilled technicians who can assess the condition of your brake drums and provide professional machining to restore them to their proper shape and functionality.
What is the most common cause of scored brake drums?
The most common cause of scored brake drums is friction between the brake shoes and the drum surface. This friction can be intensified by factors such as overheating, worn brake shoe linings, or debris caught between the brake shoes and drums. Regular maintenance and timely replacements can help prevent this issue.
Why won’t my brake drum go back on?
If your brake drum won’t go back on, it could be due to a few reasons. One possibility is that the brake shoes are not adjusted properly, causing them to interfere with the drum’s installation. Another reason could be rust or corrosion that has built up on the drum or wheel hub, making it difficult to slide the drum into place. In such cases, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance.
How much does it cost to machine brake discs?
The cost of machining brake discs can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the type of vehicle, and the extent of damage to the discs. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per axle for brake disc machining. It’s best to consult with reputable mechanics or service centers for accurate pricing information.
What does rear brake imbalance mean?
Rear brake imbalance refers to an uneven distribution of braking force between the left and right rear wheels. This can occur due to various factors such as unevenly adjusted brake shoes, unequal wear on brake linings, or malfunctioning brake components. It’s important to fix rear brake imbalance promptly to ensure consistent and effective braking.
How much does it cost to replace brake drums?
The cost of replacing brake drums can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as the cost of the replacement parts. On average, you can expect to spend between $200 and $400 per axle for brake drum replacement. However, it’s advisable to get quotes from different service providers to find the best price for your specific vehicle.
Why do you turn brake drums?
Turning brake drums is necessary to restore their roundness and smoothness. Over time, brake drums can become worn or develop irregularities that negatively affect braking performance. By turning the drums, the technician removes a small amount of material from the surface, eliminating imperfections and ensuring a proper fit with the brake shoes.
How much should a rear drum brake job cost?
The cost of a rear drum brake job can vary depending on the vehicle, the type of brake components used, and the labor charges. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a rear drum brake job. This includes the cost of replacement brake shoes, springs, and any additional parts that may be required.
Which way do you adjust drum brakes?
To adjust drum brakes, you typically turn the adjuster clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the design of the brake assembly. It’s best to consult your vehicle’s manual or seek professional guidance to ensure proper adjustment. Remember, it’s crucial to achieve the correct balance between the brake shoes and the drum for optimal braking performance.
How do you align drum brakes?
Aligning drum brakes involves properly adjusting the brake shoes to ensure they make even contact with the drum’s inner surface. This is usually done by manually adjusting the star wheel adjuster or using a brake brake spoon tool. The goal is to achieve equal contact on both sides of the drum to ensure efficient braking.
Do rear brakes adjust themselves?
Yes, rear brakes can adjust themselves to some extent. Many vehicles are equipped with self-adjusting mechanisms that automatically compensate for brake shoe wear. However, these mechanisms may not always function optimally, especially if the brake shoes are excessively worn or if there are issues with the self-adjusting mechanism. Regular inspection and maintenance are still necessary.
How do I know if my rear drum brakes need to be replaced?
There are a few signs that indicate your rear drum brakes may need to be replaced. These include squealing or grinding noises during braking, reduced braking performance, an illuminated brake warning light, or visible signs of excessive wear on the brake shoe linings. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to have your rear drum brakes inspected and replaced if necessary.
Can brake drums be turned?
Yes, brake drums can be turned through a machining process. This involves removing a thin layer of material from the drum’s surface to eliminate irregularities and restore its roundness. Turning brake drums can be a cost-effective solution compared to complete replacement, especially if the drums are still within their wear limits.
What tool is used to adjust the brake shoes before the drum is installed?
A brake spoon tool is commonly used to adjust the brake shoes before the drum is installed. This tool allows you to easily turn the star wheel adjuster, which expands or contracts the brake shoes. With the brake spoon tool, you can achieve the correct adjustment and ensure optimum braking performance.
Can warped brake drums be fixed?
Warped brake drums cannot be reliably fixed. If your brake drums are warped, it is best to replace them to ensure proper braking performance and safety. Warped drums can cause vibrations, uneven braking, and increased wear on brake components. Always consult with a professional mechanic to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Is out of round a problem with brake drums?
Yes, being out of round is a problem with brake drums. An out-of-round drum can cause uneven braking, vibrations, and poor performance. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly to maintain the safety and effectiveness of your vehicle’s braking system. Turning or replacing the drum is typically necessary to rectify the out-of-round condition.
How do you check for brake imbalance?
To check for brake imbalance, you can perform a simple visual inspection. Look for differences in brake shoe wear, as uneven wear can indicate an imbalance. You can also measure the brake drum’s inside diameter at several points to ensure consistency. If you notice significant variations, it’s advisable to have a professional technician inspect and rectify the imbalance.
Will drum brakes self-adjust?
Drum brakes often incorporate self-adjusting mechanisms that aim to compensate for brake shoe wear. These mechanisms rely on the movement of the brake shoes and a self-adjuster lever to maintain a proper distance between the shoe and the drum. While they should self-adjust to a certain extent, regular maintenance and occasional manual adjustment are still necessary to ensure optimal performance.
