2001 Kawasaki Mule 550 Drum Brake Issues

[ILoveOldJunk]

Recently acquired a 21 year old Mule.  The previous owner let the brake master cylinder run dry, and when I flushed the brakes, one wheel's brakes locked up.  I took the wheel off, but cannot get the axle nut off, and there is not enough space to get my gear puller behind the drum anyway.  Anybody had an issue with seized brakes?  How can I get this thing off to replace it or rebuild it?

[Travis]

you'll have to get the axle nut off first. 1 1/16" If i remember right.

the trick to getting the stuck drums off on these 550's is pb blaster,a hammer, and patience. also wouldn't hurt to open the bleeder on the back of the wheel cylinder to relieve any pressure.. spray the PBlaster between the drum and backing plate, let it sit and soak, and moderately tap around the drum, mainly focusing on the area around the cylinder... patience is KEY.