I have a couple of wheel studs that need replacing. From looking at drawings, it appears that they are pressed in and could be removed with a hammer. My fear is that of breaking the drums if they don't want to release. The drums, I assume are cast and may easely shatter. I would apply a penetrant around the studs first, but this whole thing worries me.
Advice much appreciated.
The studs are splined and pressed into the hub of the spindle (front wheel) or the collar/drum carrier that fits on the axle (rear wheel). The web of the drum is quite thin and the studs are a push fit into it, so no stress will be applied to the drum when you drive out the stud. If the stud doesn't move easily I would remove the unit and support it on a piece of pipe with an I.D. that clears the head of the stud and then drive it out. If you need to remove the hub because the stud is tight, then use of a press is a great idea if you have access to one.
When replacing the stud, enter it into the hole and align the splines. Then put large washers or another form of spacer over the stud, thread the wheel nut flat side down onto it and use a wrench to pull it fully into place. It's actually a very easy job.
That was a great reply, you relieved much of my apprehension. Can't thank you enough!