How do you remove the brake drum on a 1996 ford contour?

Answer 1

On the Contour (from what I've seen), the two most common reasons the drum won't come off (assuming the basics are covered--parking brake released, retaining clips, if equipped, are off) are the drum is hanging on a lip worn into it from use or the drum has seized to the center hub flange (very common and a pain). To remedy the first issue, pop the rubber dust plug out of the backing plate--it can be found on the back of the backing plate just forward of the strut--to access the automatic adjuster. Insert a small flat screwdriver and feel for the adjuster's fingers. Once you contact the fingers, lever the screwdriver (moving the handle toward the strut--the blade toward the front of the car) until the adjuster is fully retracted. Typically, this is the cause/solution to your issue if it feels like the drum will pull off somewhat and "spring" back, but not always.

The second cause seems to be one the Contours are quite prone to. A little ring of rust forms on the center hub flange and locks the drum in place. Spray some penetrating oil where the drum and hub flange contact and give the drum a few good whacks with a 3 or 5 pound mallet. Hit the drum on the outer face toward the edge, hitting opposing quadrants as to teeter the drum off. With a fairly strong shot, you should see the drum begin to move. A couple hits will get it loose and the it can either come off by hand or with a little help of a puller. Don't use much force with the puller, its just to keep the drum centered while attempting to remove. There is a chance of damaging the drum or other components using this method so inspect any parts you intend on reusing before reinstalling them and know in advance you may have to buy replacements.

In any case, be sure to use some anti-seize on the mating surfaces to ensure easier removal next time.