Washers on wheel studs?

[ncyrider]

Wheel studs on the rear drum brakes of my '01 Sport Trac, there are 2-3 internal-tooth lock washers on each side. They are very thin and look like they've been there a long time. Just wondering why they are there and if I should take them off.

 

[drdoom]

Just break them off

 

[Anime]

On drum brake systems where the drum goes over the hub/studs and can be removed on its own, those washers just keep the drum from being removed or pulling on it (and the brakes, if the emergency/parking brake is engaged) when taking off the wheel.

They also seem to be used as spacers, so the wheel is easier to remove and the wheel mounting surface doesn't contact the full area of the drum.

I would say it's better to remove the washers and have the wheel fully contact the drum surface, and just take it easy and be careful when removing wheels.

You can probably pry them out some with a screwdriver then thread them over the studs (use pliers or gloves so you don't get cut on the edge of the washers) instead of breaking them.