29/07/2021
Getting Started: Understanding Your Ford Focus Brake Drums
The brake drum is a crucial component of your Ford Focus's braking system, particularly on older or more budget-friendly models which often feature drum brakes on the rear wheels. These drums house the brake shoes, which expand outwards to create friction against the inside of the drum, slowing and stopping the vehicle. Over time, brake dust, corrosion, and general wear can make removing these drums a bit of a challenge. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can tackle this maintenance task with confidence. Remember, safety is paramount when working on your vehicle; always use appropriate safety gear and ensure the car is securely supported.
Tools You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and quicker. Here's a comprehensive list:
| Tool | Description/Purpose |
| Socket Wrench Set | Essential for removing bolts and nuts. You'll likely need a 13mm socket, but it's good to have a range. |
| Swivel Adapter | Allows the socket wrench to access bolts in awkward or confined spaces. |
| Mallet (Rubber or Dead Blow) | Used to gently tap the drum loose if it's stuck. Avoid using a metal hammer directly on the drum. |
| Flat Head Screwdriver | For prying or creating a small indentation, as described below. |
| Jack and Jack Stands | Absolutely critical for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. |
| Wheel Chocks | To prevent the vehicle from rolling. |
| Work Gloves | To protect your hands from dirt and sharp edges. |
| Safety Glasses | To protect your eyes from debris. |
| Penetrating Oil (e.g., WD-40) | Helps to loosen rusted or seized bolts and the drum itself. |
Step-by-Step Drum Removal
1. Preparation and Safety First
Park your Ford Focus on a level surface and engage the parking brake. For added security, place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on, but do not remove them completely yet. Now, safely lift the vehicle using your jack and secure it with jack stands placed on robust points of the chassis. Once the vehicle is safely supported, you can remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
2. Locating the Drum Securing Mechanism
Most Ford Focus models with drum brakes secure the drum to the hub with a retaining clip or a small bolt. You'll typically find these on the front of the drum, accessible through a small opening in the brake caliper or backing plate. Some models might have a small hole on the outer edge of the drum itself, which allows you to access a spring or pin that holds the drum in place. The information provided mentions removing four 13mm bolts from the back of the hub assembly, which suggests a slightly different setup where the drum might be attached directly to the hub, or perhaps the instruction refers to the hub assembly itself needing to be loosened to free the drum. Let's assume for a moment we are dealing with a typical drum that slides off the hub after removing any retaining mechanisms. If there's a small hole, you might need to rotate the drum to align this hole with the retaining clip or pin. A flathead screwdriver can sometimes be used to push in the clip or disengage the pin.
3. Dealing with a Stuck Drum
Often, the brake drum can become seized onto the hub due to rust and corrosion. If the drum doesn't slide off easily after removing any retaining clips or bolts, you'll need to persuade it. This is where the mallet comes in handy. Start by applying penetrating oil around the hub where the drum meets it. Allow it a few minutes to work. Then, use your rubber mallet to strike the face and edges of the drum. Work your way around, tapping firmly but not excessively hard. The goal is to shock the rust bonds loose. You can also try using the flat head screwdriver to gently pry between the drum and the hub, but be careful not to damage either component. Some drums have threaded holes on the face that allow you to screw in bolts to push the drum off the hub – check your specific model for these.
4. Removing the Drum
Once the drum is loosened, it should slide off the hub. You might need to give it a final wiggle or tap. If you are replacing the brake shoes or drums, this is where you would proceed with that work. If you are simply removing the drum for inspection or cleaning, place it aside.
5. A Note on Hub Nuts (If Applicable)
The provided information mentions a specific nut torqued to 175 ft-lbs, which should not be removed more than four times and requires marking. This strongly suggests that this nut is part of the hub assembly itself, likely securing the wheel bearing or the entire hub. If your Ford Focus requires the removal of this specific nut to access or remove the drum, it's a more involved process. This nut is critical for the proper function and safety of your wheel hub and bearing. Removing and refitting it typically requires a torque wrench to ensure it's tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. The advice to mark the nut each time it's removed indicates it's a component that can be compromised by repeated removal. If you encounter this nut and are unsure about the process, it is highly recommended to consult a professional mechanic or a more detailed service manual specific to your Ford Focus model. Incorrectly torquing this nut can lead to wheel bearing failure and potentially a loss of control.
6. Reassembly (The Reverse of Removal)
When reassembling, ensure the hub and the inside of the drum are clean. Slide the drum back onto the hub, aligning any necessary retaining clips or pins. If you removed the hub nut, ensure it is torqued to the correct specification. Refit the wheel, tightening the lug nuts by hand in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle carefully. Once the vehicle is on the ground, tighten the lug nuts fully with your socket wrench, again using the star pattern. It's always a good idea to re-check the lug nut tightness after driving a short distance (e.g., 50-100 miles).
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Drum Won't Come Off: This is the most common problem. As mentioned, penetrating oil and a mallet are your best friends. Ensure you've removed all retaining clips or bolts. If your model has the threaded bolt holes on the drum face, use them!
Stripped Bolt Heads: If a retaining bolt head is stripped, you may need to use a bolt extractor or carefully drill it out. This is a more advanced repair.
Damaged Drum: If the drum is significantly rusted, warped, or cracked, it will need to be replaced. Inspect the inside for scoring or glazing, which indicates wear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How often should I check my brake drums?
It's a good practice to inspect your brake drums whenever you rotate your tires or perform other brake maintenance. Look for signs of excessive wear, scoring, or damage.
Q2: Can I drive with a stuck brake drum?
While it might be possible, a stuck drum is an indication of a problem that needs addressing. It could affect braking performance and potentially cause damage to other components. It's best to resolve the issue promptly.
Q3: What does it mean if the brake drum is making noise?
Noise from the brake drum can indicate worn brake shoes, debris caught between the shoe and drum, or a problem with the drum itself. It's a sign that inspection and potential repair are needed.
Q4: Do all Ford Focus models have drum brakes?
No, many newer or higher-trim models of the Ford Focus come equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels. Drum brakes are typically found on the rear wheels of older or base models.
Q5: Is it safe to use a regular hammer to remove the drum?
It is strongly advised against using a regular metal hammer directly on the brake drum. You risk deforming the drum, making it unusable, or even cracking it. A rubber or dead blow mallet is the appropriate tool for persuasion.
Conclusion
Removing a brake drum from your Ford Focus can be a manageable DIY task with the right tools and a methodical approach. Always prioritise safety, double-check your work, and if you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, especially concerning critical components like the hub nut, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and safety of your braking system.
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