Can't Get Drum Over Brakes

Went to change brakes 2day...only got to driver's side. First of all,
only one brake drum had worn down......the other one was almost brand
new. Now that I've changed the brakes on that side I can't get the drum
to fit over the brakes. Both sides of the cylinder looks to be all the
way in on both sides. Looks like it might be hitting the compressed
bearing that's in the wheel. Is this normal? What can the problem be
why it won't go on?? Thanks.

 

Sorry......Rear brakes on '95 Elantra

 

It sounds like you've got the wrong brake shoes.

 

The brakes are already on. The inside bearing is what's preventing the
rotor to go on. I even took the rotor and tried to put it on the side I
didn't do yet and it's doing the same thing. Just curious if you can
take that inside bearing off and put it on after the rotor is put on or
another solution. Thanks.

 

I assume you mean "drum", not "rotor". When you install the drum, rotate
it as you put it on and it should pop right over the bearing. If it
doesn't it's not aligned right. Did you take off the inner bearing? If
so, did you reinstall it backards perhaps? The narrow end should be
pointing outward. If the bearing will come off the axle readily, yes,
you can install the inner bearing in the drum and put it on. Make sure
that the bearings are both clean and well greased with wheel bearing
grease before installing the drum.

 

Sorry about the delay. This is my third attempt at posting this. The
others remain uncolored in my recent post list, having yet to actually be
posted.

Your inner bearing and seal should stay in the drum when you remove the
drum. Check the bearing inner race and spindle for any burrs or
deformities and smooth out as necessary. Often, reinstallation requires a
significant amount of finesse (not force).