new brake drums

[dalebrignall]

this is a bit of a silly question,i have just got some new brake shoes and drums.,the drums seem to be covered in a thin oil to prevent rusting ,i assume.my question is what do i use to remove the oil,can i use petrol on a rag,and should i paint the outside of the drum,or leave the oil on it .many thanks dale .

[mike.perry]

I would clean the working surfaces with a piece of clean rag dipped in petrol, if you can afford the petrol! then leave it to dry. No point in painting the drums as nobody can see them.

[PSL184]

Thinners or panel wipe also removes the grease film if you have either of those available....

[Leo]

Dale

I recently fitted a new pair of front drums, cleaned the inside with panel wipe and painted the outside. The result is nice smooth braking.
I believe in painting even the bits that cannot be seen, it could be argued that this is a waste of time, but it only takes a few minutes so why not

Leo 69 Traveller

[rayofleamington]

if you can't afford the petrol soap and hot water will do! However you need to dry them afterwards.
If you're going to paint them, I'd advise getting a VHT (high temp) paint. Drums can easily get very hot, so to avoid the paint catching fire it's worth the peace of mind.

[Leo]

That explains those flames