bedding in new drum brake shoes

Bedding in New Drum Brake Shoes A Complete Guide

Bedding in new drum brake shoes is a crucial process for enhancing the performance and longevity of your braking system. When you install new drum brakes on your vehicle, the friction material—composed of various components—needs to establish a proper contact surface with the drum. This process, known as bedding in, is essential for effective brake operation.

Why Bedding In is Important

Bedding in new brake shoes allows the friction material to undergo a transformation as it is subjected to heat and pressure. This process helps in achieving optimal contact between the brake shoes and the drum, which improves braking efficiency, reduces noise, and minimizes the risk of premature wear. Proper bedding can also prevent glazing, a condition where the brake surface becomes overly smooth and less effective.

Steps for Proper Bedding In

1. Preparation Before starting the bedding-in process, ensure that your brake components are installed correctly. Check for any loose parts or incorrect alignment. A competent installation sets the stage for effective braking performance.

2. Quiet, Safe Environment Choose a safe location—preferably an empty parking lot or a secluded road—where you can perform several controlled tests without traffic interruptions. Make sure to wear suitable safety gear.

3. Initial Stops Accelerate your vehicle to around 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour). Then, gently apply the brakes to come to a stop. Repeat this process approximately 4-6 times. This initial phase generates heat and allows the good contact to begin forming between the shoes and the drum.

4. Progressive Braking After the initial stops, increase your speed to about 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour). Perform several moderate to firm stops. It’s essential not to come to a complete stop during this phase, as the brakes need to remain hot. You can do this for another 4-6 stops.

5. Cool Down After the progressive stops, drive the vehicle lightly for several minutes without using the brakes to allow them to cool down gradually. This step is critical as it helps to solidify the bed-in layer.

6. Final Test After the brakes have cooled down, take the vehicle for a short drive. Test the brakes at different speeds to ensure that they are functioning smoothly and effectively.

Conclusion

Bedding in your new drum brake shoes is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessary procedure for ensuring the best performance from your braking system. By following the steps outlined above, you can prolong the life of your brake components and enhance safety on the road. Regular maintenance and careful bedding in will contribute to a smooth and responsive braking experience for you and your passengers.