Question for the mechanically inclined. Wheel in flames.

[Feanorcurufinwe]

Last night I was driving home on the interstate when I realized I was smoking badly. (1986 F-150 truck) When I stopped, I discovered my left rear wheel was the culprit, and there were flames coming out of the wheel on the inside. I doused the flames with a fire extinguisher. I had a hitchhiker with me who was a mechanic. He said it was either the bearing, or the brake rubbing. Brake seemed likeliest. We were 6 miles from the exit near my house. Drove to there. It was hot but not in flames. I decided to drive it home instead of to the mechanic in that little town, who is just not trustworthy. The hitchhiker advised me if it is the brake, I should be able to take the wheel off and disconnect the brake and at least be able to drive it to a more reputable mechanic.

Well now that I've got the wheel off, I thought I would be able to just pry the drum off as well but apparently not, is there a fastener I am missing? Any other advice for me?

[slackmaster]

1. Have you released the parking brake?

I know that's a "duh", suggestion, but that would hold the drum in place.

[Feanorcurufinwe]

4. Yes but

remember, the problem is that the brake is 'on' even though it's not supposed to be.

[toddzilla]

2. you have to hit it with a hammer

no kidding, smack it good with a hammer to dislodge the drum from the wheel hub. It's all rusy and usually set in there pretty good. i'd advise against disconnecting the brake though unless you know what you're doing, which it sounds like you don't.

[Feanorcurufinwe]

3. Am I better off driving it 35 miles on the interstate to town to

bring it to the mechanic?

[slackmaster]

5. Get it towed, or pay for a mobile mechanic

You'd be a public menace on the highway.

[TX-RAT]

6. Don't disconnect the brakes

Have the vehicle hauled to the mechanic. It really sound like you should not attempt to repair.

[pscot]

7. Get it to the nearest mechanic

This aint brain surgery. The putz at the local fixit should be able to help, at least enough for you to get it to sears or mr. goodwrench.

[Feanorcurufinwe]

8. I think that's what I'll do, it's only 10 miles.

Still, any additional advice someone wants to add would be welcome.

[Kali]

9. cars.com

Click and clack bbs but they take forever to check and post your questions.