how to loosen rear drum brakes

How to Loosen Rear Drum Brakes

Rear drum brakes are an essential part of a vehicle's braking system, providing the necessary stopping power. However, over time, these brakes can become tight or misaligned, leading to inefficient braking performance. This article will guide you through the process of loosening rear drum brakes to ensure they operate smoothly.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the process of loosening drum brakes, it's important to understand how they work. Drum brakes consist of a round metal drum that rotates with the wheel, and brake shoes that press against the inside of the drum to create friction. This friction slows down the wheel when the brake pedal is pressed. If the brake shoes are too tight or if the adjustment is off, they can cause excessive wear, overheating, and decreased braking performance.

Tools You'll Need

To loosen the rear drum brakes, you'll need a few tools - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Screwdriver - Brake adjustment tool (if available) - Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Process

1. Safety First Begin by ensuring your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and put on your safety glasses and gloves.

2. Raise the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Secure it on jack stands to prevent any accidents.

3. Remove the Wheel Loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench and remove the rear wheel to access the drum brake assembly.

4. Inspect the Drum Once the wheel is off, inspect the rear drum for any visible signs of wear or damage. If the drum is severely worn, it may need to be replaced.

5. Locate the Adjuster Inside the drum assembly, you will find the brake shoes and an adjuster mechanism. This adjuster typically resembles a small wheel or gear.

6. Loosen the Adjuster Using a brake adjustment tool or a flat screwdriver, turn the adjuster in the opposite direction of the wheel's rotation. This action increases the gap between the brake shoes and the drum, effectively loosening the brakes.

7. Test the Movement After making adjustments, spin the drum to check for any resistance. There should be a slight gap, allowing the drum to rotate freely without excessive friction.

8. Reassemble Once you are satisfied with the adjustment, reattach the wheel, tightening the lug nuts securely. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.

9. Final Check Before taking your vehicle for a test drive, press the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake shoes are properly positioned.

Conclusion

Loosening rear drum brakes is a manageable task for those with basic mechanical skills. Regular maintenance and adjustments can keep your braking system performing optimally, enhancing your vehicle's safety. If you're ever in doubt or if the brakes continue to have issues, consult a professional mechanic. Remember, safety on the road is paramount.