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Brake Drum Refinishing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Buick Regal, 2003 Buick Century, 2002 Buick Regal, and 2002 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. The brake drums do not require refinishing as part of routine brake system service. Do not refinish brake drums in an attempt to correct the following conditions:
    • Brake system noise (squeal, growl, groan).
    • Uneven and/or premature brake lining wear.
    • Superficial or cosmetic corrosion/rust of the brake drum surface.
    • Scoring of the brake drum surface (less than the maximum allowable specification).
  2. Brake drums should only be refinished if the following conditions exist:
    • Excessive corrosion/rust and/or pitting.
    • Cracks and/or heat spots.
    • Excessive blueing discoloration.
    • Scoring of the brake drum surface (in excess of the maximum allowable specification).
    • Radial runout in excess of the maximum allowable specification.
  3. Inspect each of the brake drums and determine if the brake drums can be refinished and remain within the maximum allowable diameter after refinish specification:
    • With the tire and wheel assemblies removed, measure the diameter of each of the brake drums. See DRUM DIAMETER MEASUREMENT  under DRUM BRAKES in ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTIONS.
    • Inspect each of the brake drums for excessive surface wear and/or radial runout. See SURFACE AND WEAR INSPECTION  under ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTIONS.
  4. If the brake drums can be refinished, proceed with the rotor refinishing procedure.
  5. If necessary, use the Rotor/Drum Flange Resurfacing Kit in order to thoroughly clean any corrosion/rust from the brake drum flange.
  6. Mount the brake drum to the brake lathe according to the lathe manufacturer's instructions.
  7. Ensure that any vibration dampening attachments are securely in place.
  8. With the brake lathe running, slowly bring in the cutting tool until it just contacts the brake drum friction surface.
  9. Observe the witness mark on the brake drum. If the witness mark extends approximately three-quarters or more of the way around the brake drum surface, the brake drum is properly mounted to the lathe.
  10. If the witness mark does not extend three-quarters or more of the way around the brake drum, re-mount the brake drum to the lathe.
  11. Following the brake lathe manufacturer's instructions, refinish the brake drum.
  12. After each successive cut, inspect the brake drum diameter. See DRUM DIAMETER MEASUREMENT  under DRUM BRAKES in ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTIONS.
  13. If at any time the brake drum exceeds the maximum allowable diameter after refinish specification, the brake drum must be replaced.
  14. After refinishing the brake drum, use the following procedure in order to obtain the desired non-directional finish:
    • Follow the brake lathe manufacturer's recommended speed setting for applying a non-directional finish.
    • Using moderate pressure, apply the non-directional finish: If the lathe is equipped with a non-directional finishing tool, apply the finish with 120 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper. If the lathe is not equipped with a non-directional finishing tool, apply the finish with a sanding block and 150 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper.
    • After applying a non-directional finish, clean each friction surface of the brake drum with denatured alcohol or an equivalent brake cleaner.
  15. Remove the brake drum from the brake lathe.
  16. If necessary, use the Hub Cleaning Kit in order to thoroughly clean any corrosion from the wheel bearing flange.
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