Brake
Brake Drum
A brake drum is the round housing that brake shoes press against to slow the wheel. We carry 70 brake drums from $23 to $177 for 1955-2018 vehicles, including rear drum and shoe kits. Chevrolet leads with the Camaro, Corvette, S10, Impala and Equinox, and we also have drums for the Ford Focus and VW Beetle.
Shop brake drum by vehicle
When drums need replacing
Drums wear as the shoes rub against the inner surface. Heat can also warp them out of round.
Signs include a pulsing brake pedal, a scraping or grinding noise, a parking brake that does not hold, and deep grooves or heat spots inside the drum. Every drum has a maximum diameter cast or stamped on it. If the drum is past that limit after measuring, or would be after machining, it must be replaced.
Drum sizes and kits
Match the inside diameter, depth and bolt hole count to your old drum. Listings include depths such as 2.25 in to 3.2 in, and five bolt holes on many. Some drums have a rust resistant coating.
Some listings are drum and shoe kits, with two drums and a set of shoes, and some add brake fluid and lubricant. Replace drums in pairs on the same axle so braking stays even. Brands include AC Delco, Raybestos, Pronto, DuraGo, Centric and Dynamic Friction.
Fitment and install
Pick your vehicle and read the fitment table, since drum size often varies by trim, wheel size and towing package.
Support the vehicle on jack stands and back off the adjuster if the drum will not slide off. Clean any coating or oil from the new drum's braking surface. After install, adjust the shoes so they lightly drag, then set the parking brake as the service manual describes.
Brake Drum questions
Should I replace brake drums in pairs?
Yes. Replacing both drums on an axle keeps braking even from side to side. Fit new shoes at the same time if they are worn.
How do I know if my brake drum is worn out?
Measure the inside diameter with a drum gauge. If it is over the maximum number marked on the drum, replace it.
Can I resurface brake drums?
Often, if they stay within the maximum diameter after machining. Many owners replace them instead, since new drums cost little compared with labor.