Axel/Brake drum question

DanS · Post by **DanS** » Fri Mar 27, 2015 12:41 pm

I had my rear brake drums sandblasted and now I find one hub is cracked. The drums themselves are in pretty good condition. What is the general consensus, replace both drums and hubs or just replace the one cracked hub?

I am also having trouble finding a shop to turn the drums, they don't seem to have the tapered axel adapter to turn the drums. Can they be turned after taking out the hub?

Dan

ChuckW · Post by **ChuckW** » Fri Mar 27, 2015 3:15 pm

Just replace the hub. Almost all brake shops would want the drums off the hubs to turn them.

DanS · Post by **DanS** » Sat Mar 28, 2015 5:42 am

Thanks Chuck. That's what I will do.

Bobber · Post by **Bobber** » Sat Mar 28, 2015 11:04 pm

Both of mine were cracked. Weak spot next to the keyway. Check them close, your there now. May keep you from going back later. Just my two cents.

ChuckW · Post by **ChuckW** » Sun Mar 29, 2015 9:08 am

I think they get damaged during incorrect installation of the hub onto the shaft. If I remember correctly, the key has a tapered end that must be installed toward the inside. It's also best to install the hub onto the axle first, then install the key. Been a while since I did this, so maybe someone who has done it recently will post their comments so you don't damage your new hub.

ChuckW · Post by **ChuckW** » Sun Mar 29, 2015 9:19 am

Checked one of my manuals and found this:

NOTE: Place the hub and drum on the axle shaft taper and then insert the axle shaft key in the keyway. Never install the key in the keyway before placing the hub and drum assembly on the axle shaft. This procedure holds true on any 'Jeep" vehicle equipped with a semi-floating axle. Further, be sure that the axle shaft nut is torqued to a minimum of 150 lb-ft (21 kg-m.)

Post by **wesk** » Sun Mar 29, 2015 9:28 am

Chuck is spot on. Hub goes on first. Then tapered key (skinny end first) then nut and torque to at least 150 Ft. Lbs.