Do you need a special tool to change drum brakes?
In most cases you can replace drum brakes with a standard set of automotive hand tools, but a few tasks benefit from specialized drum-brake equipment. The bottom line: you don’t absolutely need dedicated tools for every step, yet having the right gear makes the job safer, quicker, and less prone to mistakes.
Drum brakes are a traditional rear-brake design used on many vehicles. Changing them typically involves removing the brake drum, inspecting and possibly replacing the shoes, cylinders, and hardware, and then reassembling with proper adjustment. The exact approach varies by make and model, especially with self-adjusting versus non-self-adjusting systems and different spring configurations.
Tools for the job
Most drum-brake work can be accomplished with common automotive hand tools found in a typical toolbox. The following list separates everyday tools from specialized items that only help in certain cases.
Common hand tools
These are the tools most drivers already have or can borrow, suitable for the majority of drum-brake jobs.
- Socket set and ratchet
- Combination wrenches (open- and box-end)
- Screwdrivers (flat-head and Phillips)
- Pliers (needle-nose, locking)
- Pry bar or flat bar for drum release
- Torque wrench (optional, mainly for lug nuts and hub components)
- Jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks
- Brake cleaner, shop rags, and a catch tray
- Brake grease or anti-squeal paste and a small brush
- Safety glasses and gloves
With these tools, you can complete a standard drum-brake replacement and hardware refresh on most vehicles. However, some tasks benefit from specialized equipment to reduce risk of damage and speed up the process.
Specialized drum-brake tools
These tools are designed specifically for drum brakes and can be very helpful on stubborn assemblies or complex spring configurations.
- Brake spring removal tool — for safe removal and installation of return springs
- Brake spoon or star-wheel adjuster tool — used to operate the star wheel adjuster through the backing plate access hole
- Drum puller or drum removal tool — helps extract a stuck drum without marring components
- Specialized brake tool kits — sets that include multiple spring tools, pliers, and adjuster tools
- Line wrench or flare wrench for brake-line connections — needed if you replace a wheel cylinder or detach a hard line
If your vehicle has a particularly tight or corroded drum, or if you’re replacing wheel cylinders and springs, these specialized tools can save time and reduce the chance of damaging components.
Step-by-step overview (general workflow)
Here is a broad, model-agnostic outline of the typical drum-brake replacement process. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for model-specific instructions and torque specs.
- Secure the vehicle: apply parking brake, chock wheels, and lift with a jack; place on jack stands.
- Remove the wheel and inspect the drum for scoring or contamination.
- Carefully remove the drum; if it’s stuck, use a rubber mallet or a drum puller to avoid damaging the backing plate.
- Inspect brake shoes, springs, wheel cylinder, and hardware for wear or leaks; decide what to replace.
- If replacing the wheel cylinder, disconnect the brake line with a flare wrench, remove the cylinder, and install the new one with new seals.
- Release and remove the return springs and hold-down pins using the appropriate tools; document the orientation of parts.
- Install new or refurbished shoes, reinstall springs and retainers, and ensure proper seating and alignment.
- Adjust the star wheel (if applicable) so the shoes lightly contact the drum; rotate the drum by hand to verify clearance.
- Reinstall the drum, then reinstall the wheel and lug nuts; torque to spec and recheck the adjustment after the vehicle is test-driven.
- Lower the vehicle, perform a cautious test stop from a low speed, and recheck for noises or pulling.
These steps provide a framework, but the exact sequence and adjustment method can differ between drum designs and vehicle manufacturers. Always follow the service manual.
Is a special tool always necessary?
Not every drum-brake job requires specialized tooling, but certain tasks are significantly easier with them. If you are replacing springs, working with stubborn drums, or servicing the wheel cylinders, having the right specialized tools can prevent damage and shorten the job time.
When specialized tools pay off
Using a brake spring removal tool, a star-wheel adjuster tool, or a drum puller reduces the risk of bending springs, tearing the shoes, or scratching the backing plate. For vehicles with complex or tight brake hardware, these tools also help you complete the job without risk of injury to fingers or hands.
When you can proceed with basic tools
If you’re only dealing with a basic wear-and-replace of shoes and hardware on a straightforward drum system, standard hand tools are usually sufficient. For many DIYers, this is enough to perform a safe, effective replacement without investing in a full drum-brake tool kit.
Summary
Changing drum brakes can be done with common tools, but specialized drum-brake tools enhance safety and efficiency for certain steps, such as removing springs, adjusting the star wheel, or freeing a stubborn drum. Always verify compatibility with your vehicle’s specific drum-brake design and consult the official service manual for torque specs and procedure nuances. With the right preparation, a drum-brake job can be completed accurately and safely.
