Section 77 (Mechanical Brake System - Base (Service Information) - Except Coupe): Drum: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Before proceeding, (Refer to BRAKES - WARNING) (Refer to BRAKES - CAUTION) .

Raise vehicle. (Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Remove rear tire and wheel assembly.

Slide brake drum off mounted wheel studs of hub and remove from vehicle. See Fig 1. If drum does not come off, further brake clearance can be obtained by backing off brake adjuster screw using following steps:

Fig 1: Drum Brakes

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - DUST CAP

2 - NUT

3 - DRUM

4 - HUB AND BEARING

5 - WHEEL CYLINDER

6 - SUPPORT PLATE

7 - BRAKE SHOES

Fabricate pawl release tool like one shown using a coat hanger or heavy mechanics wire. See Fig 2.
Remove plug from rear of support plate below wheel cylinder.
Insert fabricated tool through access hole in support plate, under adjuster, against lever pawl. See Fig 3. Pawl is attached to and pivots from leading shoe. When inserting tool through hole, directing tool somewhat forward (toward leading shoe) assures better contact with pawl.
While pushing on pawl with fabricated tool to disengage it from adjuster star-wheel teeth, rotate star-wheel downward to back off adjustment using a small screwdriver or brake adjuster tool. See Fig 3.
Once adjuster screw is backed off a sufficient amount, drum should slide off wheel studs.
Remove tools and reinstall plug in support plate.

Fig 2: Fabricated Tool

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - APPROXIMATELY 15 CM (6 INCHES)

2 - THIS END TO BE INSERTED INTO BRAKE ASSEMBLY

Fig 3: Fabricated Tool Inserted Against Pawl

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - ACCESS HOLE

2 - STAR WHEEL

3 - LEVER PAWL

4 - FABRICATED TOOL