How to Replace Drum Brake Adjusting Springs: DIY Guide

Drum brake adjusting springs are critical components that keep brake shoes properly positioned and allow them to return to their resting state after braking. When these springs weaken or break, brakes can drag, feel spongy, or fail to respond predictably. Replacing drum brake adjusting springs is an intermediate DIY task that typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours per wheel, depending on drum condition and accessibility. This guide provides general procedural steps; however, tools, torque specifications, spring routing, and exact installation procedures vary significantly by vehicle make, model, and year. You must consult your vehicle's service manual before beginning work to identify the correct parts, understand your specific brake configuration, and verify all torque requirements and safety procedures.

What You'll Need

Tools

• Socket set and wrench set (metric and standard)
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Drum brake spring removal tool or needle-nose pliers
• Wheel chocks
• Floor jack and jack stands
• Drum removal tool (if drum is stuck)
• Torque wrench
• Safety glasses and work gloves
• Wire brush or soft brush

Parts & Materials

• Drum brake adjusting spring kit (matched set for the vehicle)
• Brake cleaner or approved degreaser
• High-temperature brake lubricant
• Brake dust mask or half-face respirator
• Associated hardware (clips, pins, or fasteners included in quality kits)
• Clean shop towels or lint-free rags

Before You Begin

• Always work on a level, hard surface with the vehicle in Park and the parking brake engaged. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (or in front if lifting the rear). Never support the vehicle on a jack alone; always use properly rated jack stands positioned on the frame or suspension points recommended by the manufacturer.
• Safety-critical system warning: Drum brakes are a core safety system. If you are not experienced with brake work or uncomfortable at any point during this repair, stop immediately and have a qualified, certified mechanic inspect and complete the work. Improper spring installation can result in brake failure, loss of vehicle control, and serious injury or death.
• Read through this entire guide and your vehicle's owner's manual and service manual before starting. Drum brake layouts, spring attachment points, and configurations vary widely. Take time to understand your specific system before disassembly.
• Work in a well-lit, well-ventilated area. Brake dust can contain harmful materials. Wear a dust mask or respirator, safety glasses, and work gloves throughout the process.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace Drum Brake Adjusting Springs

1. Prepare your vehicle and work area. Park your vehicle on a level, solid surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (or in front if you are working on the rear). Position the floor jack under the vehicle frame at the appropriate lift point, then raise the wheel slightly off the ground and place jack stands securely under the frame on both sides of the wheel. Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands, ensuring it is stable before proceeding.
2. Remove the wheel and brake drum. Loosen the lug nuts using a socket wrench while the wheel is still on the ground. Raise the wheel fully off the ground, remove the lug nuts completely, and pull the wheel straight toward you to remove it. The brake drum should now be visible; some drums are held by a small retaining screw or clip that must be removed first. If the drum is stuck due to rust or brake shoe contact, tap it gently around the circumference with a rubber mallet or use a drum removal tool. Do not force it, as this can damage the drum or shoes.
3. Inspect the existing brake assembly and spring condition. With the drum removed, visually examine the entire brake interior. Locate the adjusting springs—these are typically small metal springs connecting the wheel cylinder to the brake shoes or backing plate, or sometimes positioned between shoes and the backing plate. Note their exact positions, attachment points, and orientation. Look for signs of rust, deformation, loss of tension, or corrosion. Take a clear photograph or short video of the assembly before you begin removal; this reference is invaluable during reinstallation.
4. Disconnect and remove the old adjusting springs. Using a brake spring removal tool or needle-nose pliers, carefully unhook the old adjusting springs from their attachment points. Springs are often under tension, so work slowly and deliberately to avoid slipping tools or damaging surrounding components. Document the routing of each spring as you remove it. Some springs may be corroded or frozen in place; apply a small amount of penetrating oil if needed and allow it to soak for a few minutes before attempting removal again. Once freed, set the old springs aside for proper disposal.
5. Clean the brake drum interior and backing plate. Using brake cleaner and a soft brush, thoroughly clean the inside of the drum, the backing plate, and all attachment points. Remove brake dust, rust, and debris. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a dust mask. Dry everything with clean shop towels. A clean work surface ensures that new springs seat properly and helps you identify any damage to the backing plate or drum that may need attention.
6. Install the new adjusting springs according to kit instructions. Unpack the new spring kit and carefully review the instructions provided. Compare the new springs to your reference photo or video to ensure you understand the correct orientation and routing. Position each spring in the same location and angle as the original springs, then securely attach them at the wheel cylinder, backing plate, or shoe anchor points using the appropriate hardware included in the kit. Ensure springs are taut and properly seated, but do not overtighten them—excessive tension can cause brake drag and premature wear. Consult your vehicle's service manual for specific torque values and attachment procedures, as these vary significantly by vehicle design.
7. Test spring tension and proper seating. Manually move the brake shoes back and forth gently to verify that the new springs return them smoothly to their resting position. Springs should not bind, twist, or appear misaligned. Verify that all attachment points are secure and that no springs are catching on the drum bore or other components. Make any final adjustments before reinstalling the drum.
8. Reinstall the brake drum and wheel. Carefully slide the brake drum back onto the spindle, aligning it with the brake shoes. Replace any retaining screw or clip that was present on the original drum. Install the lug nuts by hand, then tighten them in a star or cross pattern using a socket wrench to ensure even seating. Once hand-tight, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specification found in your vehicle's service manual. Reinstall the wheel and repeat the star-pattern torque procedure for the final tightening.
9. Lower the vehicle and test the brakes. Slowly lower the vehicle off the jack stands by carefully removing the stands and allowing the vehicle to settle on all four wheels. Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times in the vehicle to allow the brake shoes to seat against the drums and to build brake pressure. Test the brakes at very low speed in a safe environment such as an empty parking lot or quiet residential street. Brakes may feel soft initially and should improve after several brake applications. If the brake pedal remains soft or spongy, or if brakes do not respond as expected, stop immediately and do not drive the vehicle. Inspect for loose springs, air in the brake lines, or other issues before proceeding.
10. Perform a final brake system inspection. During the test drive, verify that the vehicle stops smoothly and evenly without pulling to either side. Listen for any unusual noises such as squeaking, clicking, or grinding when brakes are applied. Check that braking feels responsive and consistent. If you notice any concerns—soft pedal, uneven stopping, noise, or drag—have a qualified mechanic inspect the brake system immediately. Proper brake function is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Tips for a Successful Drum Brake Adjusting Spring Replacement

• Document everything. Take clear photos or a brief video of the brake assembly before removing any springs. Capture the exact routing, attachment points, and orientation of each spring. This visual reference eliminates guesswork during reinstallation and significantly reduces the risk of improper assembly.
• Choose quality replacement springs. Look for adjusting spring kits made from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or coated spring steel, especially if your vehicle is regularly exposed to road salt or humid environments. Read product specifications carefully to understand material composition and durability ratings. Low-cost springs may fail prematurely and require replacement sooner.
• Do not reuse old springs. Even if old springs appear to hold tension, they have lost their original strength and elasticity after years of use. New springs are inexpensive relative to the potential cost of brake failure. Additionally, avoid overtightening springs during installation, as this causes excessive brake drag, premature shoe and drum wear, and poor brake feel.
• Understand self-adjusting vs. manual adjustment. Many modern vehicles feature self-adjusting drum brakes that automatically compensate for shoe wear. However, some older vehicles and certain truck models require manual brake shoe adjustment via an access hole on the backing plate. Consult your service manual to determine whether your vehicle's brakes are self-adjusting or require manual adjustment after spring replacement.

When to Call a Professional

Do not attempt this repair if you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with brake system work. Stop the job and contact a qualified mechanic if you encounter any of the following: the brake drum is cracked, deeply scored, or severely corroded; the wheel cylinder is leaking fluid; brake shoes are excessively worn or damaged; the backing plate is bent or cracked; you cannot identify the correct spring routing or attachment points even with reference materials; your vehicle has an integrated or complex brake system that is not readily accessible from above the backing plate; or the brakes do not respond properly after spring reinstallation. Brake systems are safety-critical, and improper repair can result in brake failure and serious injury. When in doubt, have a certified mechanic verify your work or complete the repair for you.