Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Need help changing rear drum brakes

[Lunkerman]

I have a 2k 2500 4X4 with 72k miles and need to check/replace the rear brakes. I'm getting the truck ready for winter, new hoses, serp. belt, antifreeze flush, already did the front pads, now the rear brakes. Pulled the rear wheels and noticed the drums don't just pull off. Someone said I had to pull the axles and then the drums will remove? :--) If this is true then I might as well change the bearings and seals while it's all apart. The parking brake is not holding well any more so I also got a rebuild kit. I searched the archives and FAQ's for info on rear brake disassembly but came up empty. Can someone provide me with this procedure or stear me in the right direction?



Much appreciated!! Oo.



John

 

[Thomas]

Leave the axles alone! Remove the clip nuts that secure the drums to the wheel studs and the drum should pull off.



You will probably find that rust is keeping things together, even with the clip nuts removed.

 

[DBrickel]

Yeah what Thomas said. You might have to back off the rear brakes a few clicks and sometimes the drums are a bit hard to convince they need to come off but with a little force and the proper verbal language (keep kids out of earshot) they will come off