BRAKE DRUM INSTALLATION
How Long Does a Brake Drum Last?
Since the brakes are arguably the truck’s most vital safety feature, brake parts should never be allowed to fail. Rather, timely repair and/or replacement is always the best course of action. There are two telltale signs that your brake drums need to be replaced, indicated by noise and feeling.
To achieve maximum drum life and optimum performance, proper brake maintenance and brake balance are
essential. Consult your truck or trailer manufacturer’s maintenance manual for proper maintenance of the
braking mechanism.
The following procedures are suggested as a means of obtaining maximum service and to determine the
need for replacement.
NOTICE: When replacing lining, brake drum or rotor on one end of the axle, replace the same
components on the other end of the axle. This will maintain proper braking load on the axle.
A1. Inspection of Brake Drums or Rotors
When relining brakes, the brake drum or rotor should be cleaned and inspected. To be
suitable for further service, the brake drum or rotor should pass the following checks:
A. The brake surface should be free of scoring, excessive heat checks and free of
cracks.
B. The brake surface diameter should be within the maximum diameter cast or
stamped on the drum or minimum thickness cast or stamped on the rotor.
C. The mounting holes and pilot must be round and true.
D. The mounting surface must be clean and flat.
CAUTION: If any of the above conditions are not met, the brake drum or rotor should be replaced.
Brake Shoe Installation
- Q Plus™ LX500/MX500 System
- Genuine Meritor Brake Linings
- Installation and Labor Included
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Must match the suspension type
- Safer, consistent braking
- Longer brake life
- Protects brake system
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Expert Shock Absorber Installation
- Different Damping Needs
- Compression vs. Rebound
- Tailored Design
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Shock Absorber MERITOR
- Different Damping Needs
- Compression vs. Rebound
- Tailored Design
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Shock Absorber OEM VOLVO PART
- Different Damping Needs
- Compression vs. Rebound
- Tailored Design
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Shock Absorber FREIGHTLINER
- Different Damping Needs
- Compression vs. Rebound
- Tailored Design
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Shock Absorber SACHS
- Different Damping Needs
- Compression vs. Rebound
- Tailored Design
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Essential for safe vehicle control
- Critical for Safety
- Function of Tie-Rods
- Maintenance is Key
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
Properly balanced wheels = smoother ride
- Wheel Balance Matters
- Reduce Wear
- Often Overlooked
* Offer Expires 10/31/26
About this service
Signs of worn brake drums include vibrations when braking, squeaking or grinding noises, and reduced braking performance. You may also notice uneven tire wear or feel the brake pedal pulsating.
It is not safe to drive with worn or damaged brake drums, as they can severely reduce your vehicle’s braking performance and increase the risk of an accident. If you notice any signs of wear, it’s essential to have the brake drums inspected and replaced as necessary.
Brake drums can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more, depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and maintenance. However, regular inspections are recommended to ensure they remain in good condition.

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Signs of worn brake drums include vibrations when braking, squeaking or grinding noises, and reduced braking performance. You may also notice uneven tire wear or feel the brake pedal pulsating.
It is not safe to drive with worn or damaged brake drums, as they can severely reduce your vehicle’s braking performance and increase the risk of an accident. If you notice any signs of wear, it’s essential to have the brake drums inspected and replaced as necessary.
Brake drums can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more, depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and maintenance. However, regular inspections are recommended to ensure they remain in good condition.