Steps to Properly Adjust Drum Brakes by Reversing Your Vehicle

How to Adjust Drum Brakes by Backing Up

Adjusting drum brakes is a crucial maintenance task for any vehicle equipped with this type of braking system. Properly functioning drum brakes ensure safe and efficient stopping power, while neglecting maintenance can lead to uneven wear, decreased performance, and even potential brake failure. One of the most effective methods to adjust drum brakes is by using the backing-up technique. This article will guide you through the process of adjusting your drum brakes with this straightforward method.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before we delve into the adjustment process, it’s essential to understand how drum brakes work. Unlike disc brakes that utilize a flat rotor and caliper, drum brakes operate with an enclosed drum that houses brake shoes. When you press the brake pedal, the wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes outward against the drum’s inner surface, creating friction to slow down or stop the vehicle. Over time, the brake shoes can become worn, leading to ineffective braking and the need for adjustment.

Preparation for Adjustment

Before starting any brake adjustment process, safety should be your top priority. Follow these steps

1. Gather Tools and Materials You will need a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a brake adjuster tool (a flathead screwdriver may work), and safety goggles. 2. Park Safely Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement.

3. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the vehicle, and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel using the lug wrench to gain access to the drum.

Now that your vehicle is safely elevated, you can begin the adjustment process.

1. Access the Brake Assembly Remove the brake drum carefully, as it may be stuck due to rust or dirt. You might need to tap it lightly with a hammer or use a brake drum puller.

2. Locate the Adjusters Inside the drum, you will find the brake shoes and the adjusting mechanism, typically a star wheel adjuster or a lever. If your shoes have worn down, the adjusters need to be tightened to compensate for that wear.

3. Manual Adjustment If you have a star wheel type, turn it clockwise to expand the shoes and counterclockwise to retract them. Use a brake adjuster tool or screwdriver to make these adjustments. It’s crucial to adjust them evenly to prevent pulling during braking.

4. Test the Adjustment After making initial adjustments, replace the drum and wheel, then lower the vehicle. To fine-tune the adjustment, you can take the vehicle for a short drive. As you back up and apply the brakes, the shoes will adjust themselves automatically to fit against the drum better.

5. Repeat if Necessary You may need to repeat this process a couple of times, backing up and applying the brakes, then checking and readjusting if necessary until you achieve optimal performance.

Final Checks

Once you feel satisfied with the adjustment, make sure to perform a few more checks

- Inspect the brake shoes for wear. - Look for any leaks in the brake system. - Ensure that the braking system is responsive during a test drive in a safe area.

Conclusion

Adjusting drum brakes by backing up is a practical method that can help ensure your vehicle’s brake system is functioning correctly. Regular maintenance and adjustments not only improve braking performance but also enhance safety on the road. If you find that brakes are still not performing adequately after adjustment, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic for further inspection or repair. Remember, your safety is paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.