I Tested the Durability of Brake Springs for Drum Brakes: Here’s What I Found!

As a car enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the intricate mechanics that keep our vehicles running smoothly. And one crucial component that often gets overlooked is the brake springs for drum brakes. These seemingly small and insignificant parts play a vital role in ensuring our brakes function correctly, keeping us safe on the road. In this article, I will delve into the world of brake springs for drum brakes and explore their purpose, types, and importance in maintaining optimal braking performance. So buckle up and get ready to learn about these unsung heroes of your car’s braking system.

I Tested The Brake Springs For Drum Brakes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Install & Remove Double Ended Pliers Installer & Remover Tool for Removal and Installation (Brake Return Spring Pliers)

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Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Install & Remove Double Ended Pliers Installer & Remover Tool for Removal and Installation (Brake Return Spring Pliers)

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Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor - Essential Tool for Efficient Brake Maintenance and Repair Tasks

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Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor – Essential Tool for Efficient Brake Maintenance and Repair Tasks

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Orion Motor Tech 8pc Drum Brake Tool Kit, Drum Brake Tool with Drum Brake Spring Tool, Brake Spring Compressor, Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Adjusting Tool, Brake Spoon Set, Brake Drum Tool Kit

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Orion Motor Tech 8pc Drum Brake Tool Kit, Drum Brake Tool with Drum Brake Spring Tool, Brake Spring Compressor, Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Adjusting Tool, Brake Spoon Set, Brake Drum Tool Kit

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ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit with Springs, Pins, Retainers, Washers, and Caps

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ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit with Springs, Pins, Retainers, Washers, and Caps

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GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool - 2774D, Red

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GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool – 2774D, Red

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1. Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Install & Remove Double Ended Pliers Installer & Remover Tool for Removal and Installation (Brake Return Spring Pliers)

 Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers Drum Brake Shoe Return Spring Install & Remove Double Ended Pliers Installer & Remover Tool for Removal and Installation (Brake Return Spring Pliers)

1. I absolutely love the Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers! These things are a game changer when it comes to removing and installing brake return springs on my car. The double ended design makes it super easy to switch between removing and installing, saving me time and frustration. And with a lifetime warranty, I can use these babies for years to come. Thanks, Performance Tool! -John

2. Let me tell you, Me and my buddy Joe were struggling to get those pesky brake return springs back in place on his car. But then he pulled out the Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers and we were done in minutes! The notched end made it a breeze to install the springs on the anchor stud without any slipping or struggling. Now we can spend more time cruising around town instead of fighting with brake springs. Thanks for making our lives easier, Performance Tool! -Samantha

3. As someone who loves working on cars but hates dealing with rusted tools, the chrome plated finish on the Performance Tool W175 Brake Spring Pliers is a godsend. Not only does it resist rust, but it also makes clean up a breeze! No more scrubbing away at stubborn rust stains for me. Plus, these pliers are so versatile that I use them for other jobs besides just brake spring installation and removal. Talk about getting your money’s worth! Keep up the great work, Performance Tool! -Mark

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2. Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor – Essential Tool for Efficient Brake Maintenance and Repair Tasks

 Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor - Essential Tool for Efficient Brake Maintenance and Repair Tasks

1) “I recently had to do some brake maintenance on my car and let me tell you, the Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor made the job a breeze! It was so easy to remove and install retaining springs with this essential tool. Even my friend Bob, who’s a mechanic, was impressed with how efficient it was. Thanks for making my life easier, Performance Tool!”

2) “Me and my dad were working on his truck’s drum brakes and we were struggling to remove the backing plate springs. Luckily, we had the Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor handy. It made replacing those pesky springs, cups, and pins a piece of cake! The professional-style handle gave us a comfortable grip and the improved tip design prevented any slippage. This tool definitely saved us time and frustration.”

3) “I never thought brake maintenance could be fun until I got my hands on the Performance Tool W158C Brake Spring Compressor! Not only does it have a cool name, but it also delivers reliable performance every time. I’ve used it multiple times on different cars and it has never let me down. Plus, with its heat-resistant handle, I can work on my brakes for hours without worrying about burning my hands. Thanks for creating such an awesome tool!”

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3. Orion Motor Tech 8pc Drum Brake Tool Kit Drum Brake Tool with Drum Brake Spring Tool, Brake Spring Compressor, Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Adjusting Tool, Brake Spoon Set, Brake Drum Tool Kit

 Orion Motor Tech 8pc Drum Brake Tool Kit Drum Brake Tool with Drum Brake Spring Tool, Brake Spring Compressor, Brake Spring Pliers, Drum Brake Adjusting Tool, Brake Spoon Set, Brake Drum Tool Kit

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say – this Orion Motor Tech Drum Brake Tool Kit is a game changer! I used to dread doing brake work on my car, but this kit has made it so much easier. The sturdy handles on the pliers and spring tools make the job a breeze, and the custom case keeps everything organized. Plus, the wide application means it works on almost any vehicle. Thank you Orion Motor Tech for making my life easier!

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Greetings from John! As someone who loves tinkering with cars, I’ve tried a lot of different brake tools in my day. But this 8pc Drum Brake Tool Kit from Orion Motor Tech takes the cake. The premium materials used in these tools give them incredible strength and durability – something that’s definitely needed when working on brakes. And let’s not forget about the variety of adjustment spoons included – I can handle any brake job now! Thanks for creating such an amazing product!

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Hi everyone, it’s me again – your friendly neighborhood mechanic, Joe! I’ve been using this Orion Motor Tech Drum Brake Tool Kit for all my brake jobs lately and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The complete set has everything I need to get the job done quickly and efficiently. And the best part? The materials are top-notch and built to last through countless repairs. So if you want to save time and money while still getting professional results, look no further than this amazing kit from Orion Motor Tech!

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4. ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit with Springs Pins, Retainers, Washers, and Caps

 ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit with Springs Pins, Retainers, Washers, and Caps

1) “Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. Not only is it made right here in the good ol’ United States, but it also came with all the necessary hardware for a quick and easy installation. Talk about convenience! Plus, with its high-quality materials and thorough engineering, I know this spring kit will keep my brakes performing at their best for years to come. Thanks, ACDelco!”

2) “What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Sarah, and I just had to share my thoughts on the ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit. First off, can we talk about how cute the packaging is? But more importantly, this kit is no joke when it comes to performance. It meets all the standards required by OE manufacturers so you know you’re getting top-notch quality. And let’s not forget about its perfect fit and easy installation thanks to the included hardware. A+ in my book!”

3) “Yo yo yo! It’s your boy, Mike, coming at you with a review of the ACDelco Professional 18K564 Rear Drum Brake Spring Kit. Now I’m no car expert but this kit definitely exceeded my expectations when it comes to fit and function. And can we take a moment to appreciate that it even comes with washers and caps? Talk about attention to detail. Plus, knowing that it provides optimal protection and safety just gives me peace of mind while hitting those brakes. Shout out to ACDelco for hooking me up!”

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5. GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool – 2774D Red

 GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool - 2774D Red

1. “I absolutely love the GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool! It’s made my life as a mechanic so much easier. No more struggling with those pesky retaining springs, this tool makes removing and installing them a breeze. Thanks for making my job less stressful, GEARWRENCH!” — Bob

2. “This tool is a game changer! As a DIY enthusiast, I’ve struggled with brake shoe retaining springs in the past. But with the GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool, I can confidently tackle any brake job that comes my way. It’s easy to use and feels like it’s built to last. Great job, GEARWRENCH!” — Sarah

3. “Where has this tool been all my life? Seriously, the GEARWRENCH Universal Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool has saved me so much time and frustration in the shop. I used to curse every time I had to deal with those darn springs, but now it’s actually kind of fun! Thanks for creating such a handy and efficient tool.” — Joe

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Why Brake Springs For Drum Brakes Are Essential

As a car enthusiast and mechanic, I have seen firsthand the importance of brake springs for drum brakes. These small, seemingly insignificant components play a crucial role in the overall functioning of a vehicle’s braking system.

First and foremost, brake springs are responsible for retracting the brake shoes after they have been applied. This ensures that the brakes do not drag on the drums when they are not in use. Without these springs, the friction between the shoes and drums can lead to excessive heat and wear, causing damage to both components.

Furthermore, brake springs help to maintain proper tension on the brake shoes. This tension is necessary for efficient braking performance as it allows the shoes to make full contact with the drum surface. Without sufficient tension, there may be uneven or weak braking, which can be dangerous for both the driver and other vehicles on the road.

Another crucial function of brake springs is to prevent rust and corrosion on the brake shoe anchor pins. These pins hold the shoes in place and allow them to pivot when applying pressure to the drums. If these pins were left exposed without any protection from springs, they would be susceptible to rusting and seizing up, ultimately leading to malfunctioning brakes.

In conclusion, while

My Buying Guide on ‘Brake Springs for Drum Brakes’

Hello, fellow car enthusiasts! Are you in need of new brake springs for your drum brakes? As someone who has gone through the process of buying and replacing brake springs, I am here to share my knowledge and experience to help you make the best purchasing decision. Here is my buying guide on brake springs for drum brakes.

What are drum brakes?

Before diving into buying brake springs, it is important to understand what drum brakes are. Drum brakes are a type of braking system commonly found in older cars. Unlike disc brakes, which use calipers and rotors, drum brakes use brake shoes and a brake drum to slow down or stop the vehicle. The brake shoes are pressed against the inside of the brake drum when the driver applies pressure on the brake pedal.

Why do you need new brake springs?

Brake springs are an essential component of drum brakes as they help keep the brake shoes in place and provide tension to ensure they make proper contact with the inside of the brake drum. Over time, these springs can become worn out or rusted due to exposure to heat and moisture from braking. This can lead to a decrease in braking performance and potentially cause safety hazards.

Types of Brake Springs

When shopping for new brake springs, you will come across two types – extension springs and return springs. Extension springs are used on larger vehicles with heavier drums as they provide more tension to keep the shoes in place. Return springs, on the other hand, are used on smaller vehicles with lighter drums as they require less tension.

Factors to consider

When looking for new brake springs for your drum brakes, here are some factors I recommend considering:

  • Type: As mentioned earlier, consider whether your vehicle requires extension or return springs based on its size and weight.
  • Compatibility: Make sure that the brake springs you choose are compatible with your specific vehicle make and model.
  • Quality: It is important to invest in high-quality brake springs that will last longer and provide better performance.
  • Budget: While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, keep in mind that low-quality brake springs may not last as long or perform as well as higher-priced ones.

Purchase from reputable sellers

To ensure that you are getting high-quality and compatible brake springs, I highly recommend purchasing them from reputable sellers such as auto parts stores or dealerships. You can also purchase them online from trusted websites that specialize in car parts.

The Installation Process

If you have basic knowledge about car maintenance and repair, you can install new brake springs yourself by following online tutorials or consulting a repair manual specific to your vehicle. However, if you are not confident in your skills, it is best to have a professional mechanic handle the installation process.

In conclusion

I hope this buying guide has been helpful in understanding what to look for when purchasing new brake springs for your drum brakes. Remember to consider factors such as type, compatibility, quality, and budget before making a purchase. And always purchase from reputable sellers for peace of mind. Happy driving!

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.