Methods for Adjusting Drum Brakes by Reversing Vehicle Motion

Adjusting Drum Brakes by Backing Up A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a common feature in many vehicles, particularly those with rear-wheel drive. Despite being less common in modern cars with the rise of disc brake technology, understanding how to adjust drum brakes is crucial for maintaining safe and effective braking performance. One of the most effective methods for adjusting drum brakes is by backing up. This article will explore the importance of proper drum brake adjustment and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively.

Importance of Adjusting Drum Brakes

Properly adjusted drum brakes ensure optimal contact between the brake shoes and the drum. This leads to improved braking efficiency, better overall vehicle control, and a reduction in the risk of brake fade. Over time, brake shoes wear down and the drum itself can become slightly out of shape, leading to increased stopping distances and uneven braking. Regular adjustments help maintain braking performance and extend the life of the brake components.

The Backing Up Technique

The backing up method for adjusting drum brakes is simple yet effective. When a vehicle is driven in reverse, the action of the shoes against the drum helps to position the shoes to the correct distance. This method utilizes the natural function of the drum brake system, and it can be performed as part of routine brake maintenance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Drum Brakes by Backing Up

1. Gather Necessary Tools Before starting, make sure you have the required tools, which typically include a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, and a brake adjusting tool (if needed).

2. Vehicle Preparation Park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. Ensure that the wheels you need to work on are raised by using the jack and secured with jack stands.

3. Remove the Wheel Use the lug wrench to remove the wheel covering the drum brake assembly. This will give you direct access to the drum and shoes.

4. Inspect the Brake Components Before adjustment, take a moment to inspect the brake shoes and the drum for wear or damage. Look for signs of excessive wear such as scoring or uneven surfaces, which might warrant replacement.

5. Adjusting the Brake Shoes With the wheel removed, locate the adjustment mechanism. This can vary depending on the type of drum brake system. Some drums have a slot through which you can access the adjuster directly. Use your brake adjusting tool to turn the adjuster to expand the brake shoes slightly.

6. The Backing Up Process Once you have adjusted the shoes, replace the wheel temporarily. Start the vehicle and carefully back up a few feet. Then, apply the brakes firmly. The action will allow the shoes to seat properly against the drums, creating the necessary friction and alignment.

7. Repeat Adjustment as Needed After reversing, check the brake feel by driving forward and applying the brakes. If they feel too loose, you may need to make further adjustments to the shoes before repeating the backing process.

8. Final Checks Once you're satisfied with the adjustment, return to the wheel, remove it again, and do a final inspection of your work. Ensure everything is in good condition and torqued to the proper specifications before replacing the wheel and lowering the vehicle.

9. Test Drive Finally, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly and that the adjustment has provided a clearer and more responsive braking feel.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and adjustment of drum brakes are vital for ensuring vehicle safety and performance. By utilizing the backing up method, you can effectively align and adjust your drum brakes to improve their effectiveness. This simple technique can save time and enhance your driving experience, ensuring that your vehicle stops reliably every time. Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or feel unsure about any aspect of the adjustment process, consulting with a professional mechanic is always advisable.