drum brake won't go back on

Troubleshooting Drum Brake Issues Why They Won’t Go Back On

Drum brakes are a vital component of many vehicles, providing reliable stopping power and smooth performance. However, over time, they may encounter issues that prevent them from functioning properly. One of the common problems car owners face is when the drum brakes won’t go back on after being removed for servicing or inspection. This article explores the potential causes of this problem and offers guidance on how to troubleshoot and resolve it.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before delving into the problem, it’s important to understand how drum brakes function. Unlike disc brakes, which use calipers to clamp down on a rotor, drum brakes rely on brake shoes that expand outward against the inner surface of a rotating drum. This design uses friction to slow down the vehicle and is commonly found in the rear of many vehicles. The components of a drum brake system include the drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, springs, and hardware that ensures everything functions harmoniously.

Common Causes of Drum Brake Issues

1. Misalignment During Installation One of the most frequent reasons that drum brakes won't go back on is misalignment. When reinstalling the drum after servicing, it’s essential to ensure that the brake shoes are properly positioned. If they are pushed too far out or not correctly seated, the drum may not fit back over the shoes.

2. Worn or Stretched Springs The brake system includes springs that help retract the shoes and maintain their position. If these springs are worn out or have stretched over time, they may not allow the shoes to return fully to their resting position. This can cause the shoes to be slightly extended, preventing the drum from being installed properly.

3. Shoe Adjustment Issues Drum brakes typically have an adjustment mechanism, which might be manual or automatic, to ensure that the brake shoes are the correct distance from the drum. If the adjusters are stuck or improperly set, the shoes may be too far out, making it difficult to fit the drum back on.

4. Debris and Rust Accumulation of dirt, debris, or rust inside the drum or on the brake shoes can also interfere with proper installation. Before reassembling the drum brake system, it’s crucial to clean all surfaces thoroughly to ensure a smooth fit.

5. Brake Shoe Swelling In some cases, brake shoes can swell due to exposure to moisture or heat. This can be especially true if the shoes are made of organic material. Swollen shoes may not fit back into the drum, causing obstruction.

Troubleshooting Steps

If you're facing difficulties reinstalling your drum brakes, here are some steps to help you troubleshoot the issue

1. Examine Brake Components Start by visually inspecting all brake components, including the shoes, drum, springs, and adjusters. Look for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion that might prevent proper operation.

2. Adjust the Brake Shoes Use the adjustment mechanism to ensure that the brake shoes are as close to the drum as necessary without being too far extended. A slight turn of the adjuster can make a significant difference.

3. Clean the Drum and Shoes Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the inside of the drum and the surface of the brake shoes. Remove any rust or debris that might be causing interference.

4. Check the Springs Ensure that the return springs are functioning correctly and not damaged. Replace any springs that show signs of wear.

5. Tap or Rotate the Drum Sometimes, gently tapping or rotating the drum while attempting to install it can help realign misaligned components.

Conclusion

When faced with the frustrating issue of drum brakes that won’t go back on, patience and methodical troubleshooting are essential. By understanding the common causes of the problem and following the outlined troubleshooting steps, most car owners can resolve this issue effectively. If problems persist, consult a professional mechanic for further assistance, as persistent issues might indicate more serious underlying problems within the brake system. With proper care and attention, maintaining your drum brakes can ensure reliable performance and safety on the road.