Looking for some advise on how to proceed with my issue.

I'm having one heck of a time removing the back drums off my van. I have followed the service manual and have had no luck.

It states in the manual to removal the back access plug from the back of the drum and use a small screw driver to ease off the lever for the parking brake, which should allow it to release enough to remove the drum.

I even used a rubber hammer to gently bang around the drum to see if it was a rust issue.

Any suggestions or tips ?

98 Chevy Venture 3.4L
2wd

 

Use a bigger hammer.

 

Thank you for your suggestion

 

wd-40 or similar sprayed around the axle hub, slight bit of heat via small propane torch, and tap with hammer .

 

Thank you for the suggestions.

I give it a try !

It just seems that the brake shoes are holding it in place and not the hub, but I could be wrong.

Thanks again

 

um, is parking brake off? check also that you were loosening the shoes, not tightening them.

 

100% the parking brake is off as I never use it.

The thing is that I'm not sure what the service manaul was referring to about backing off the parking brake. I stuck a screw driver in and did not feel anything. Do I use a flat head or something?

Yes I know I'm a noob when it comes to drums

Thankz for the help

quote from service doc..

If difficulty is encountered in removing the brake drum, the following steps may be of assistance.

1. Make sure the parking brake is released.
2. Back off the parking brake cable adjustment.
3. Remove the access hole plug from the backing plate.
4. Using a screwdriver, back off the adjusting screw.

 

if its a 98..its probably rust...drums can b a B*(&# to get off..like MDTAHOE said get a bigger hammer and hit it a few times...

 

A friend of mine long ago told me to hit the drum with a hammer between the lug bolts, being careful not to hit the bolts themselves. I have popped several off that way, assuming the brakes are properly loosened. To make sure they are loose put it in neutral and turn the drum. You'll notice if the brake is too close.

 

Cool thanks guys !

I'll try that !

I also think I have to loosen the brakes using the adjuster bolt on the back. This weekend is warming up a little here in S. Ontario. So hopefully I wont get as frustrated as last weekend working in -15c

hey btw... is it safe to use a jack stand on the rear axle ??? or cinder blocks ?

my normal jacking spots by the back wheels rusted out long ago.

Thanks again for all the advise gentlemen ! I'm just hoping I don't have to deal with my master cylinder on top of this. brakes are right to the floor at the moment.