Removing a stubborn brake drum

[Bob A.]

Hi All,

I have a 63 roadster, 98Pt. car. In checking the brakes yesterday, I noticed that one of the studs was stripped and I could not remove the front, right brake drum to check the brakes. I wacked it with a heavy rubber mallet to no avail.

Any guidance on how to remove a stubborn brake drum is appreciated.

Additionally, any watchouts for replacing a stripped stud is much appreciated. If replacing one, should I replace all five?

Bob
#32465

[Bill M.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

Try heating up the stud area of the drum with a propane torch. Us a sledge hammer and hit while heating. It is probably rusted on atoned the bearing ares.

[Bob A.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

Try heating up the stud area of the drum with a propane torch. Us a sledge hammer and hit while heating. It is probably rusted on atoned the bearing ares.

Thx Bill, Is it better to hit the drum on the front, sides, or rim with the sledge to avoid any issues? Bob

[Gary C.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

Bob,

Step # 1 - back off the brake shoes to make sure they're not binding against the drum

Gary
....

[Patrick H.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

This works like a charm. Bought it for the same issue on a 63 a few years ago:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JBIU7F4

[Owen L.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

Bob,

Step # 1 - back off the brake shoes to make sure they're not binding against the drum

Gary
....

Yes, this. If the shoes have worn a groove into the drum they won't let the drum slide off without a lot of force, risking damage to components.

[Dan H.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

If it has self adjusters, backing off will be a big problem.

[Chris D.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

I second the puller approch after backing off the adjusters. Be aware of replacement stud dimensions. Many have longer splines for later Model years that engage with a thicker hub flange. After putting in all new studs I had a dickens of a time pulling my drums until I realized the splines were extended into the drum web.

[Bill M.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

Hit the outer rim of the drum closest to the wheel. Sorry for late response. Did this many times on all types of cars and trucks.

[Rod K.]

Re: Removing a stubborn brake drum

If the above suggestions are unsuccessful you could always just remove the drum and hub as an assembly (remove spindle nut) to get better access on the bench.