How to Replace Your Truck Brake Shoes

Replacing truck brake shoes as soon as they start showing problems is imperative to maintain a safe driving condition. The truck brake shoes provides additional power to the truck. If the truck brake shoes are not working properly, it will make the truck skid, and the braking power also reduces drastically; hence it is a matter of your safety and life. Do not neglect it. Follow the steps below to fix the problem.

Step 1 – Prep Stage One

Make sure that you park the truck in an open area. The ground on which the truck is parked should be even.

Step 2 – Prep Stage Two

Place a wedge in the wheels to block the movement of the truck. With the help of a jack raise the truck, Make sure that the jack stand is providing the required support. Also make sure to use all the equipment with utmost care.

Step 3 – Brake Drums

With the help of a wrench, preferably a lug wrench, take off the wheels from its slots. This will give you access to the brake-drums.

Step 4 – Removing the Brake Drum

To remove the brake drum from its slot, spray the area with penetrating oil. Use a hammer to tap on the drum. This will remove the brake drum.

Step 5 – Alternative

If the brake drum refuses to budge, then you can access the brake shoe from the backing plate area.

Step 6 – How?

Locate the adjuster screw which goes though the backing plate. This will help you access the brake shoe.

Step 7 – Fix

Now go through all the parts of the brake and brake drum. Look for usual wear and tear effects and check if there has been any brake fluid leaks.

Step 8 – Return Springs

The next step is to dismantle all return springs. Do this meticulously, so that you have a good reference point.

Step 9 – Actuator

Release the link of the actuator from the anchor pin and the rear shoe. Remove all spring assemblies by pressing on the pin that retains the springs.

Step 10 – Brake Shoes

Now remove the truck brake shoes adjuster and the brake strut. These are located close to the wheel cylinder. Clean the truck brake shoes adjuster and use grease to lubricate the thread. Remove the old truck brake shoes.

Step 11 – Plate

Spray brake cleaner on the backing plate. This will help clean the backing plate. Use emery cloth to even the truck brake shoes contact points. Follow it up with grease lubrication.

Step 12 – Installing the New Brake Shoes

Follow the reverse of the removal process to install the truck brake shoes. Do not expose the face of the new installation to dirt and grease. Lower the truck and take it on a test drive.