Performing a drum brake service is a critical maintenance task for many vehicle owners, ensuring safety and reliable stopping power. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic or a professional technician, having the right parts and tools for the job is non-negotiable. A complete service kit not only saves time but also guarantees that every component, from springs to hardware, is replaced with quality parts.
This roundup focuses on the best drum brake service kits available for a range of common vehicle models, from Jeeps to Ford Transits and Chevy trucks. We’ve also included essential tool kits that make the repair process smoother and more efficient, helping you achieve professional-level results with confidence.
Our Top Picks for Drum Brake Service Kits
- Crown Drum Brake Service Kit
- Premium Rear Brake Drum and Brake Shoe Service Kit for Ford Transit
- Lyhubmh 8 PC Drum Brake Tool Kit
- Kauplus 14-Piece Professional Drum Brake Tool Set
- Orion Motor Tech 10pc Drum Brake Tool Kit
- TOPEND Brake Service Kit, 8-Piece Drum Brake Tool Set
- Orion Motor Tech 15pc. Master Drum & Disc Brake Tool Kit
- Dorman HW2325 Rear Drum Brake Hardware Kit
- A-Premium Front Drum Brake Hardware Kit for Chevy Silverado
Crown Drum Brake Service Kit
Designed specifically for Jeep models, the Crown Drum Brake Service Kit is a reliable choice for a straightforward replacement. It is built with high-quality construction, ensuring that the components meet the demands of daily driving. The kit includes all the necessary hardware to restore your brake system’s integrity.
Backed by a 12-month limited warranty, this kit provides peace of mind for your repair project. It serves as a direct replacement for worn-out parts, helping to maintain the vehicle’s original braking performance and safety standards.
Premium Rear Brake Drum and Brake Shoe Service Kit for Ford Transit
This comprehensive service kit is engineered for the 2010-2013 Ford Transit, offering outstanding durability and consistent performance. Manufactured in ISO-certified factories, every component is designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications. This ensures a perfect fit and reliable function, critical for commercial vehicles.
Each part undergoes thorough inspection for high-quality workmanship, guaranteeing that you receive a product you can trust. This all-in-one kit simplifies the servicing process, providing everything needed for a complete rear brake job on these specific Transit models.
Lyhubmh 8 PC Drum Brake Tool Kit
This 8-piece set from Lyhubmh is a complete solution for tackling drum brake adjustments and replacements. The kit includes essential tools like brake spring pliers, a compressor, adjusting spoons, and a spring retainer tool. It is designed to efficiently manage the entire service process, saving you time and frustration.
Built from structural-grade 45 steel with black oxide and chrome coatings, these tools offer optimum strength and longevity. The ergonomic handles are designed with a nonskid pattern to fit comfortably in your palm, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.
Kauplus 14-Piece Professional Drum Brake Tool Set
The Kauplus 14-piece set is ideal for servicing drum brakes on a wide array of import and domestic vehicles. It covers a full range of applications for adjustment, installation, and removal. The set features tools with comfortable TPR grips, including a spring compressor, installer, removal tool, and brake retaining tool.
A standout feature is the tri-function brake spring pliers, which are highly effective at removing and replacing shoe return springs. This comprehensive collection ensures you have the right tool for every step of the brake service procedure.
Orion Motor Tech 10pc Drum Brake Tool Kit
Orion Motor Tech’s 10-piece kit provides all the necessary accessories for a thorough drum brake service. The set includes pliers, installers, removers, compressors, and multiple adjustment spoons to handle various tasks. The metallic components are constructed from structural-grade 45# steel, known for its strength and ductility.
To enhance durability, the tools feature wear and corrosion-resistant black oxide and chromate coatings. The four brake spring tools are equipped with reinforced, ergonomic handles designed to spare you effort and aggravation during the job.
TOPEND Brake Service Kit, 8-Piece Drum Brake Tool Set
The TOPEND 8-piece drum brake kit is a complete set for the adjustment, removal, and installation of drum brakes. It includes spring pliers, installers, removers, a compressor, retainers, and several adjustment spoons. This range of tools covers hundreds of makes and models of cars and light trucks.
Ergonomics are a key focus, with reinforced handles that provide added comfort and reduce effort during use. For easy organization and transport, the entire set comes in a rugged blow-molded case, keeping your tools protected and readily accessible.
Orion Motor Tech 15pc. Master Drum & Disc Brake Tool Kit
This 15-piece master kit from Orion Motor Tech is an all-in-one solution for both drum and disc brake systems. It includes essential tools for installing components, adjusting brake shoes, removing brake dust, and ensuring proper alignment. The kit is particularly versatile, with noted compatibility for popular European brands like VW, Seat, Skoda, Opel, and Renault.
Durability is paramount, with tools made from high-strength AISI 5160 and 40Cr steel. Nickel and chrome plating provide added corrosion resistance, making this kit built to withstand the demands of frequent professional or DIY brake repairs.
Dorman HW2325 Rear Drum Brake Hardware Kit
The Dorman HW2325 is a direct replacement hardware kit designed for select Ford and Mercury models. It matches the original hardware required to repair the drum brake system, ensuring a correct and hassle-free installation. This kit is an ideal solution for replacing original components that have failed due to age and fatigue.
Constructed from quality components, the kit is built to deliver reliable performance and a long service life. Using this kit helps restore the braking system to its intended function, maintaining vehicle safety.
A-Premium Front Drum Brake Hardware Kit for Chevy Silverado
This A-Premium hardware kit is tailored for the front drum brakes on Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, and 3500 models. It includes all the necessary springs, pins, and clips to complete a professional-grade brake service. The components are designed for a precise fit, ensuring smooth operation and restored braking performance.
By replacing worn hardware, this kit addresses common issues like uneven brake wear and reduced stopping power. It is a practical and cost-effective way to maintain the safety and reliability of these popular truck models.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Drum Brake Service Kit
When it is time to service the rear brakes on your car, a drum brake service kit is the way to go. Instead of buying individual springs and hardware piece by piece, these kits bundle everything you need for a complete rebuild. But not all kits are created equal. I have learned that picking the right one saves a ton of hassle and ensures a safe, long-lasting repair. Here is what I always check for before making a purchase.
First and foremost, you have to get the fit right. This sounds obvious, but it is the most critical step. I always look up my vehicle’s exact year, make, model, and engine size on the retailer’s website. Even common models like the Ford F-150 or Honda Civic can have different brake components between model years or trim levels. Do not guess; double-check your vehicle information. Many kits are also labeled for specific applications, like “for non-ABS” or “for heavy-duty” models, so pay close attention to those details.
Next, I look at what is actually inside the box. A good drum brake service kit should be comprehensive. At a minimum, it needs to include the return springs (both upper and lower), the hold-down springs and pins, and the self-adjuster mechanism parts like the lever, cable, and socket. Some premium kits go the extra mile by including new star wheel adjusters and even a small packet of high-temperature brake grease. I avoid kits that seem to be missing key components, as tracking down that one missing spring can be a real headache.
The quality of the materials is another big factor for me. I look for kits from well-known brands in the automotive world. These companies typically use spring steel that has the correct tension and hardware that is corrosion-resistant. Using weak or poorly made springs is a safety risk; they can fatigue and break, leading to a brake shoe that does not retract properly. I also check customer reviews to see if other people have had issues with the kit’s durability after a few thousand miles.
Finally, I consider the value. While the cheapest option is tempting, I remember that this is my braking system we are talking about. I look for a kit that offers a complete set of quality parts at a fair price. Sometimes, spending a few dollars more for a kit that includes those extra convenience items, like the grease or new adjusters, is worth it for a smoother, more professional job. Doing the job once, and doing it right with a reliable drum brake service kit, gives me peace of mind on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a typical drum brake service kit?
A typical kit contains all the necessary hardware to refresh the mechanical parts of your drum brake system. This almost always includes the return springs (the strong ones that pull the brake shoes back), the hold-down kits (springs, pins, and caps), and the self-adjuster components (the lever, cable, and guide). Some more complete kits might also throw in a new star wheel adjuster assembly and a packet of brake lubricant. What you will not find are the brake shoes or the drums themselves; those are sold separately.
Can I install a drum brake service kit myself, or do I need a professional?
If you are comfortable with basic car repairs and have a good set of hand tools, you can absolutely do this yourself. The job is more about patience and careful reassembly than complex mechanics. However, there is a very important caveat: you must be extremely organized. I highly recommend taking a photo of the brake assembly before you disassemble anything. Lay the old parts out in the exact order you remove them. This gives you a visual guide for reassembly. If you are not confident in your ability to get this critical safety system back together correctly, there is no shame in having a professional handle it.
How do I know when I need to replace my drum brake hardware?
You should inspect the hardware anytime you have the brake drum off, usually when you are replacing the brake shoes. Look for obvious signs of wear. The springs can lose their tension over time, and you might see rust or corrosion on the metal parts. If the self-adjuster mechanism is seized up or the cable is frayed, that is a clear sign it needs replacement. A good rule of thumb I follow is to replace the hardware every other time I change the brake shoes, or anytime the parts look tired and worn. It is cheap insurance for proper brake function.
Are all drum brake service kits universal, or are they vehicle-specific?
They are definitely vehicle-specific. The size, shape, and tension of the springs, as well as the design of the self-adjuster mechanism, vary widely between different car makes and models. A kit for a Chevrolet Silverado will be completely different from one for a Toyota Camry. This is why it is so important to use a website or catalog that allows you to filter by your vehicle’s specific details to find the correct drum brake service kit for your car.
What tools will I need to complete the installation?
You do not need many specialty tools. A basic socket set, screwdrivers, and pliers will handle most of the job. The one tool that makes life infinitely easier is a dedicated drum brake spring tool. It is a simple, inexpensive tool that helps you safely remove and install those very strong springs without hurting your hands or launching a spring across the garage. A pair of needle-nose pliers can also be very helpful for handling the small clips and hooks.