Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Parts Cost: - Brake Drums: The cost of brake drums themselves can range from $30 to $100 per drum for most standard vehicles. High-performance or specialty vehicles may have more expensive drums. - Brake Shoes: If you are replacing the brake drums, you might also need to replace the brake shoes, which can cost between $20 and $50 per set.
2. Labor Costs: - Labor costs can vary significantly based on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the job. On average, you might expect to pay between $50 and $150 for labor per axle.
3. Total Cost: - For a complete brake drum replacement, including parts and labor, the total cost can range from $150 to $400 per axle. This estimate can be higher for luxury or performance vehicles.
4. Additional Costs: - If other components of the braking system need attention, such as wheel cylinders or hardware kits, this can add to the overall cost.
5. Repair vs. Replacement: - In some cases, brake drums can be resurfaced instead of replaced, which might be a cheaper option. Resurfacing typically costs between $10 and $25 per drum, but this is only viable if the drums are not too worn or damaged.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Inspection: Before any replacement or repair, a thorough inspection of the brake drum and related components is conducted. This includes checking for wear, scoring, cracks, or any other damage to the drum itself, as well as inspecting the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and hardware.
2. Removal of the Brake Drum: The wheel and tire are removed first, followed by the brake drum. This may require loosening any retaining screws or clips and sometimes adjusting the brake shoes to allow the drum to slide off easily.
3. Cleaning: Once removed, the brake drum and surrounding area are cleaned to remove dust, rust, and debris. This helps in better inspection and ensures that new parts fit and function correctly.
4. Measurement and Assessment: The brake drum is measured to determine if it is within the manufacturer’s specifications for diameter and roundness. If the drum is worn beyond limits, it must be replaced. If it is still within limits but has minor imperfections, it may be resurfaced.
5. Resurfacing or Replacement: Resurfacing:If the drum is still serviceable but has minor grooves or imperfections, it can be machined or resurfaced to restore a smooth surface. Replacement:If the drum is too worn, cracked, or damaged, it will be replaced with a new one.
6. Inspection and Replacement of Other Components: Brake Shoes:These are inspected for wear and replaced if necessary. Wheel Cylinders:Checked for leaks or damage and replaced if needed. Hardware:Springs, adjusters, and other hardware are inspected and often replaced to ensure proper function and reliability.
7. Reassembly: The brake drum and all components are reassembled. This includes properly adjusting the brake shoes to ensure they make correct contact with the drum.
8. Testing: After reassembly, the braking system is tested to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This may include a road test to check for proper braking performance and any unusual noises.
9. Final Adjustments: Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure optimal performance and safety.Overall, replacing or repairing a brake drum involves careful inspection, cleaning, and either resurfacing or replacing the drum, along with checking and possibly replacing other related components to ensure the entire braking system is in good working order.
What is a Brake Drum and What Does It Do?
A brake drum is a component of a drum brake system, which is commonly used in the rear wheels of many vehicles. The brake drum is a cylindrical drum that rotates with the wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake shoes inside the drum are forced outward against the inner surface of the drum, creating friction that slows down or stops the wheel from turning.Here are the main components involved in a brake drum system:
1. Brake Drum: The drum itself is typically made of cast iron and is attached to the wheel hub. It rotates with the wheel and provides the surface against which the brake shoes press to create friction.
2. Brake Shoes: These are curved pieces lined with friction material. When the brakes are applied, the shoes are pushed outward against the inside of the drum, creating the necessary friction to slow down the wheel.
3. Wheel Cylinder: This hydraulic component is responsible for pushing the brake shoes outward. It receives brake fluid pressure from the master cylinder when the brake pedal is pressed.
4. Return Springs: These springs pull the brake shoes back to their original position when the brake pedal is released, ensuring that the shoes do not drag against the drum when the brakes are not applied.
5. Backing Plate: This is a metal plate that provides a base for the other components of the drum brake system. It also helps protect the brake assembly from debris and moisture.
6. Adjuster Mechanism: This component helps maintain the correct distance between the brake shoes and the drum as the shoes wear down over time. It ensures consistent braking performance and pedal feel.Drum brakes are known for their durability and are often used in applications where high braking force is not as critical, such as in the rear wheels of passenger vehicles. However, they are generally less effective at dissipating heat compared to disc brakes, which is why disc brakes are more commonly used in the front wheels, where more braking force is typically required.
Signs your Brake Drum needs to be replaced
Brake drums are an essential component of a vehicle's braking system, particularly in drum brake setups. They work in conjunction with brake shoes to slow down or stop the vehicle. Over time, brake drums can exhibit signs of wear or failure, which can compromise braking performance and safety. Here are some common signs of brake drum failure:
1. Unusual Noises: - Squealing or Scraping: This can indicate that the brake shoes are worn down and are making contact with the drum itself. - Grinding: A grinding noise often suggests that the brake shoes are completely worn out, and the metal backing plate is contacting the drum.
2. Vibrations or Pulsations: - If you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal when applying the brakes, it could be a sign that the brake drum is out of round or warped. This can occur due to excessive heat or uneven wear.
3. Reduced Braking Performance: - A noticeable decrease in braking efficiency, such as the vehicle taking longer to stop, can indicate that the brake drums are worn or damaged.
4. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: - If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it might be due to issues with the brake drum or the hydraulic system, such as air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak.
5. Visible Damage or Wear: - Upon inspection, if the brake drum shows signs of cracking, scoring, or excessive wear, it may need to be replaced. Deep grooves or a glazed surface can also indicate problems.
6. Pulling to One Side: - If the vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it could be due to uneven wear of the brake drums or issues with the brake shoes.
7. Overheating: - Excessive heat can cause brake drums to warp or crack. If you notice a burning smell or see smoke coming from the wheels, it could be a sign of overheating.
8. Brake Warning Light: - Some vehicles have a brake warning light that may illuminate if there is a problem with the braking system, including the brake drums.Regular maintenance and inspection of the braking system can help identify these issues early and prevent brake drum failure. If you experience any of these signs, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to ensure safe and effective braking performance.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
