i am trying to remove the rear brake drum to replace brakeson a 1999 dodge van 3500
Professional
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 199
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From: vancouver, wa
sometimes you have to loosen the adjuster [star wheel] if the brakes are significantly worn. there could be a ridge on the drum that will catch the shoes and keep the drum locked on there. try beating on the drum first, that will usually knock the surface rust loose and let er pop off.
If the drum has a ridge in it, that was made from the brake shoes, that slide hammer plan could damage the shoes if they are still good. Loosening the adjuster wheel should provide enough clearance to remove the drums unless it is rusted on. Sometimes a BFH will break loose the rust.
Veteran
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 285
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From: Ridgely, MD
If you have no luck with the other suggestions which were what I would do. You can hammer out the wheel studs be careful not to damage them and that will make it easier coming off if the drum is tight. I was replacing everything so it didn't matter if I messed up the drum or the studs or the brakes lol but it didn't either way. Drum came right off.
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 87,479
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From: Clayton MI
For the studs, I just use a chunk of 2x4, hold it against the stud, then smack it with a BFH. The wood splinters, but, does no damage at all to the studs.
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Record Breaker
Joined: Apr 2013
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From: Alberta
If the drum has a ridge in it, that was made from the brake shoes, that slide hammer plan could damage the shoes if they are still good. Loosening the adjuster wheel should provide enough clearance to remove the drums unless it is rusted on. Sometimes a BFH will break loose the rust.