The rear drum brake assembly is a leading/trailing design. When the brakes are applied, the wheel cylinder pistons move both shoes out to contact the drum with enough energy to overcome the rotation of the wheels, slowing and, with continued application, stopping the vehicle.

Adjustment for both the leading and trailing shoes and linings is automatic when the brakes are applied.

It is normal for the leading shoe to wear at a faster rate than the trailing shoe. Reinstall brake shoes in the same position from which the shoes were removed. Do not switch the position of the shoes that have been in service because this may render the self-adjustment feature inoperative and result in increased pedal travel.

On some models, the drum is part of the hub and wheel bearing. For service procedures for this type of drum, refer to Brake Drum Replacement . On other models, the drum is a hubless-type and is bolted onto a separate wheel bearing hub. The hubless drum can be identified by two screws located on the top of the drum. For service procedures for this type of drum, refer to Brake Drum Replacement .