how to loosen drum brakes

How to Loosen Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are commonly found in many vehicles, especially on the rear axle of older cars and some modern ones. Over time, drums and brake shoes can become too tight, leading to dragging brakes, reduced fuel efficiency, and even increased wear on brake components. If you notice that your drum brakes are sticking or feel overly tight, it may be time to loosen them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process safely and effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Brake cleaner 4. Adjusting tool (if necessary) 5. Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1 Safety First

Before you start working on your vehicle, ensure that you have your safety equipment on. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from brake dust and debris. Gloves can help you keep your hands clean and protected from sharp edges.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the vehicle from the ground appropriately. Make sure to position it on a level surface and engage the parking brake to prevent any movement. Once the vehicle is elevated, secure it with jack stands to ensure it remains stable during your work.

Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts of the wheel that covers the drum brakes. It’s best to do this while the wheel is still on the ground to avoid it spinning. Once loosened, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to gain access to the drum brake assembly.

Step 4 Inspect the Drum and Brake Assembly

With the wheel removed, visually inspect the drum brakes. Check for signs of wear or damage on the brake shoes and drum surface. If the shoes appear overly worn or if the drum has deep grooves, it may be prudent to replace them instead of merely adjusting.

Step 5 Adjust the Brake Shoes

Drum brakes often have a self-adjusting mechanism, but this can sometimes fail. Locate the adjuster, typically found at the bottom of the brake assembly. If it appears that the brakes are too tight, use an adjusting tool to turn the adjuster in the proper direction (usually counterclockwise) to loosen the brake shoes.

Step 6 Clean the Brake Assembly

While you have access to the drum brakes, it’s a good idea to clean them as well. Use brake cleaner to spray the components and wipe away any dust, debris, or old grease. This can help improve the overall performance of your brakes.

Step 7 Reassemble and Test

Once you have adjusted the brakes and cleaned the assembly, place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and onto the ground. Then, fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tension.

Conclusion

Loosening drum brakes can help restore proper function and improve the safety of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and checks on your braking system are essential for safe driving. If you find that your brakes continue to stick or if you’re unsure about your ability to perform this maintenance, consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Safe driving begins with reliable brakes; don’t neglect their care!