How Hard is it to change the drum brakes on a 99 F150. Ive done the fronts several times with success. Also is there any special tools i need. Besides the Brake Pads what else do i need?

Thanks

 

Get a pair of "brake pliers", and a drum brake kit (all the springs and clips that hold the shoes).

 

The secret to drum brakes is have both drums off at the same time but only repair one side at a time so you have a correct side to look at. Also look at the 2 tools on the left in my brake draw of my box, the red handle is to put hold down springs on and off and the long plier type tool is for putting tension springs on with. The c clamp vise grip is for holding the shoes in position while assembling.



This is a breakdown of the rear:

 

Ok thanks alot for all the help! Looks like a project and a half! I just got home from work so ill check tomorrow fo any other tips!

 

I am working on the drum brake myself. I removed the rubber plug from the bottom and pushed the adjuster out and turned the starwheel up. What I am not sure is if "up" is the on the rubber plug side (inside) or the drum side (outside).

I used 2 flat tip screw drivers, one to push the adjuster bar out and the other to turn the starwheel up. But the drum wouldn't come out. I sprayed liquid wrench and hammered on the drum for about 1/2 hour. At this point, I am not sure if I backed the shoe or extended it.

Is there a rule of thumb for the starwheel that applies to all vehicles? Right handed thread on right wheel, and left handed thread on left wheel?

EDIT: 97 V6 55k miles. Second owner. Not sure if original shoe or not. I see brake oil leaked to the backplate (heat shield plate) and dripped to the tire (inside). I need to remove the drum and locate the leak. That's where I am stuck.


SECOND QUESTION: I have the slender tool to remove/install springs, but don't have the red tool. Is it a must? I have done drum brakes several times without the red tool. But all my previous brakes jobs were on sedans. This is my first pickup and first pickup brake job.

 

Try tapping the drum around the edges [ I use a 3lb. hammer] to take it off, they tend to rust around the center and the lugs. Also spray penetrating oil. As for the "red tool", just use pliers [push in and turn] like on a sedan.