Rear brakes on Nissan Almera the new generation (G15) are made in the form of a drum mechanism, which is a fairly common solution for a modern compact sedan. This design provides excellent braking performance and operational reliability, but requires periodic maintenance and replacement of consumables.
Removal process rear drum has its own specific features that distinguish it from similar procedures on other cars. Incorrect actions can lead to damage to the self-propelling mechanism or damage to the brake pads, so it is important to follow a clear sequence of actions when disassembling.
Preparing the workplace and necessary tools
Before starting work, it is necessary to ensure a safe environment and prepare a set of tools. You will need a standard set of wrenches, a jack, body stands and special tools for removing circlips. Ignoring preparation can result in you spending twice as long searching for the right key or, worse, stripping the threads.
Pay special attention to the condition brake system before starting work. If you are planning to replace your pads, make sure the new parts are compatible with your type. Nissan Almera. Also check the presence of grease for the guides and bearings so that you do not have to stop the repair process.
- 🔧 Set of open-end and spanner wrenches (sizes 10, 12, 14, 17)
- 🔨 Hammer with rubber face or copper spacer
- 🧰 Retaining ring remover (collet clamp)
- 🛢 Rust remover (WD-40 or equivalent)
Don't forget about personal protective equipment. Brake dust is extremely harmful to the respiratory tract, so a respirator or at least a thick mask is mandatory when working with braking mechanism.
⚠️ Attention! Before starting any work on the wheels, be sure to apply the handbrake on the front wheels or block them with chocks so that the vehicle does not move when removing the rear wheels.
Removing the wheel and preparing the hub
The first step is to remove the wheel. Raise the car on a jack, placing it under the reinforced points of the body, and be sure to secure it on a stand. Remove the wheel and inspect carefully brake disc (if there is one) or the drum itself. Often dirt and rust can accumulate under the drum and need to be removed.
If your vehicle has a rear drum brake, accessing the fasteners sometimes requires removing the plastic hub cap. In models Nissan Almera G15 this is usually not required, since the fastening is carried out through holes in the drum itself or from the back, but a visual inspection will not hurt.
Clean the surface of the drum from dirt and traces of rust. This is critical as dirt may prevent complete removal of the part or damage the seals during reassembly. Use a wire brush and liberally scrub the joints with rust remover.
- 🧹 Clean the surface from dust and rust
- 💧 Treat the mounting bolts with penetrating lubricant
- 🛠 Inspect the condition of the hub and bearing
Sometimes the mounting bolts can be over-tightened or become stuck. In this case, you should not apply excessive force right away; it is better to preheat them or treat them with chemicals.
- Retaining Ring Puller
- Keys 14-17 mm
- Hammer
- Doesn't cause anything
Unscrewing the drum mounting bolts
In design Nissan Almera G15 brake drum often held on the hub with two bolts located at the end. These bolts may have a non-standard head, so make sure you have the correct size wrench. Usually these are hex or star bolts, but in some configurations there are also regular hex keys.
If the bolts are stuck, try warming them up slightly, but be careful not to overheat the brake fluid or bearings. Try gently shaking the wrench to break up the rust layer. If the bolts do not budge, do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads in the hub.
After unscrewing the bolts, check to see if there are any additional fasteners left. Sometimes additional fastening elements may be hidden under the decorative caps, which must be removed before removing them yourself. brake mechanism.
- 🔩 Unscrew the drum mounting bolts
- 🔍 Check for hidden fasteners
- 🛠 Clean the threads from dirt and rust
It is important not to lose the bolts and washers, as they are needed for subsequent installation. It is recommended to put them in a separate container so as not to drop them in the mud or lose them in the grass.
☑️ Check before removing the drum
Removing the retaining ring and removing the drum
This is the most critical stage, requiring accuracy and the right tools. On the hub Nissan Almera G15 often has a retaining ring installed to keep the drum from moving. To remove it, a special puller or collet clamp is required. Attempting to remove the ring with a screwdriver may result in its deformation and the impossibility of reinstallation.
Use retaining ring removerto carefully separate it and remove it from the hub. If there is no ring, then the drum can only be held on by friction and fit. In this case, it must be carefully knocked down using a hammer and spacer, striking the inside of the drum, but not the edge, so as not to damage the working surface.
After removing the retaining ring or unscrewing the bolts, the drum may sit very tightly. Don't try to remove it the first time if it doesn't budge. Use a hammer to gently tap around the perimeter of the drum to break up the layer of rust and dirt holding it to the hub.
⚠️ Attention! Never hit the drum running surface or brake pads with a hammer, as this may damage them and cause cracks.
What to do if the drum cannot be removed?
If the drum does not come off, try heating it with a hair dryer or blowtorch (very carefully) to expand the metal. You can also use a drum puller, which rests on the hub and presses on the drum, tearing it away from its seat.
If you are unable to remove the drum by hand, you may need to use a special brake drum puller. This tool allows you to apply even force and remove the part safely without risk of damage.
- 🔧 Use a retaining ring remover
- 🔨 Gently tap around the perimeter of the drum
- 🛠 If necessary, use a drum puller
Hub and Bearing Maintenance
After removal brake drum access to the hub and rear bearing is provided. This is the ideal time to check their condition. Inspect the bearing for play, noise, or signs of overheating. If a bearing shows signs of wear, it should be replaced immediately to avoid future problems.
Clean the hub of old grease, rust and dirt. Apply new grease to the bearing and seat. Make sure that lubricant does not come into contact with the running surface of the brake pads, as this may reduce braking performance.
Check the condition of the hub seal. If it is damaged or shows signs of leaking, it must also be replaced. The seal prevents dirt and moisture from entering the bearing and also keeps the lubricant inside.
- 🔍 Check the condition of the bearing
- 🧹 Clean the hub from dirt and old grease
- 🛢 Apply new grease to the bearing
It is important not to confuse the order of installation of parts during reassembly. Remember or take photos of how all the elements were installed to avoid mistakes.
Before installing a new bearing, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the outer race to facilitate seating in the hub.
Removing and replacing brake pads
Now that brake drum removed, you can begin replacing the brake pads. First you need to remove the upper and lower springs that hold the pads in place. Use special pliers to remove the springs to avoid damaging them or causing injury.
Next, remove the spacer bar and the self-feeding mechanism. Pay attention to the condition of the slack adjuster, as it may jam due to contamination or lack of lubrication. Wipe all parts and lubricate friction points with special brake lubricant.
Install new brake pads in reverse order. Make sure all springs and retainers are installed correctly and securely. Check that the pads do not touch other elements of the brake mechanism.
- 🔧 Remove the springs and spacer bar
- 🛠 Check the self-feeding mechanism
- 🛢 Lubricate friction points with brake grease
After installing new pads, it is necessary to adjust the gap between them and the drum. This can be done manually through the adjustment hole or after installing the drum, by spinning the wheel and pressing the brake pedal.
⚠️ Attention! Never use conventional brake lubricant as it can soften in high temperatures and cause brake failure.
Assembly and adjustment of the brake mechanism
Assembly is carried out in reverse order. Install brake drum on the hub, making sure that it fits tightly and without distortion. Install the retaining ring and tighten the mounting bolts.
After installing the drum, it is necessary to adjust the brake pad clearance. This is done by spinning the wheel and pressing the brake pedal until the pads begin to press against the drum. Then loosen the adjustment a little so that the wheel rotates freely, but without much play.
Install the wheel and lower the car. Drive at low speed and press the brake pedal several times until the pads are in place. Check the operation of the handbrake and make sure that there are no unusual noises or squeaks.
| element | Recommended tightening torque (Nm) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Drum bolts | 10-15 | Do not overtighten |
| Hub nut | 180-200 | Only for models with nut |
| Caliper mount (if equipped) | 30-35 | For disc brakes |
| Adjustment screw | 10-15 | For manual adjustment only |
Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If it falls, add fluid to the required level. This is important because when replacing the pads, the pistons may move out, which will increase the volume of fluid in the system.
Correctly adjusting the brake pad clearance ensures effective braking and prevents overheating of the mechanism.
Frequently asked questions and problems when removing the drum
In the process of working with Nissan Almera G15 various issues may arise. Below are answers to the most common ones that will help you avoid mistakes and save time.
Why doesn't the drum come off after unscrewing the bolts?
This may be due to the drum being stuck to the hub due to rust or dirt. Try gently tapping the perimeter of the drum with a hammer or using a puller. Warming up the drum may also help.
How to properly adjust the brake pad clearance?
The clearance is adjusted by spinning the wheel and pressing the brake pedal. The pads should be pressed against the drum, but not too tightly so that the wheel can rotate freely. Use an adjustment hole or a self-feeding mechanism.
Can I use regular brake lubricant?
No, you can't. Conventional grease can soften at high temperatures and cause brake failure. Use only special brake lubricant designed for high temperatures.
How often do you need to change brake pads on a Nissan Almera G15?
The frequency of replacement depends on driving style and operating conditions. On average, rear drum pads last from 40 to 80 thousand kilometers. It is recommended to check their condition at every maintenance.
By following these recommendations, you can remove and service the rear brake drum on your car yourself. The main thing is to be careful and follow all safety rules.
Critical: Never leave the vehicle with the handbrake on immediately after replacing the drum pads, as they may stick to the new drum before the initial break-in period has occurred.