The 1967 Volkswagen Bug uses drum brakes. When the driver presses on the brake pedal, the brake shoes press on the drums to slow the vehicle through friction. The disadvantage of this type of brake system is that there is no mechanism by which excess friction can be dampened. Because of this, the brake drums tend to need replacing rather frequently. If the wear and tear of the brake shoes is moderate, you will only need to replace the drums. With just a bit of mechanical ability and two hours of spare time, you can replace the brake drums yourself.
Tools Used: Jack, Jack stands, Ratchet and socket, Tire tool, Needle nosed pliers
Install the Brakes
Set the emergency brake and ensure the car is parked on a flat surface. Slide underneath the rear of the car and locate the drum on the bottom of the axle, inside the wheel.
Using needle-nosed pliers, flatten the ends of the cotter pin inside the drum. Use pliers to remove the cotter pin from the drum. Loosen the castle nut with a ratchet and socket.
Loosen the lug nuts with the tire tool's lug wrench. Raise the rear of the Volkswagen with a jack, place jack stands beneath the axle on both sides, and slowly lower the jack until the car rests upon the stands.
Remove the lug nuts with a lug wrench, and then remove the wheel with your hands. Remove the castle nut with a ratchet and socket. Release the emergency brake. Remove the brake drum with your hands.
Perform the previous steps in reverse order to install the new brake drums for your rear wheels, and then perform the same procedure for the front wheels.
0 Comments