drum brakes binding

Understanding Drum Brakes Binding Causes and Solutions

Drum brakes are a crucial component of many vehicles, playing an essential role in slowing down and stopping. However, one common issue that mechanics and vehicle owners may encounter is the binding of drum brakes. When drum brakes bind, they cause difficulty in wheel movement, which can lead to increased wear, reduced performance, and potential safety hazards. In this article, we will explore the causes of drum brake binding and discuss possible solutions.

What Causes Drum Brakes to Bind?

1. Worn Components Over time, various parts of the drum brake system may wear out. The brake shoes, which press against the drum to create friction, can become worn unevenly or develop hot spots due to excessive heat. This uneven wear can lead to the shoes not retracting properly, causing them to bind against the drum.

2. Corrosion and Rust Drum brakes are exposed to various environmental factors, including moisture and road salt, which can lead to rust and corrosion. Rust build-up on the brake drums or the backing plate can obstruct the movement of the brake components, preventing them from returning to their resting positions.

3. Improper Installation If drum brakes are not installed correctly, it can lead to misalignment of the brake components, causing binding. This might occur if the brake shoes are not positioned correctly or if the return springs are not properly tensioned.

4. Brake Cylinder Issues The wheel cylinder plays a crucial role in the functioning of drum brakes. If the cylinder becomes leaking or fails, it can cause the brake shoes to become stuck in an engaged position. This situation often leads to one side of the brake binding more than the other, resulting in uneven braking and steering issues.

5. Contaminated Brake Parts Brake fluids, oils, and other contaminants can compromise the effectiveness of the brake components. If brake shoes become contaminated, their ability to grip the drum effectively can be impaired, causing the brakes to hang up.

6. Malfunctioning Return Springs The return springs help pull the brake shoes away from the drum when the brakes are not engaged. If these springs are faulty or have lost tension, the shoes may not retract completely, leading to binding.

How to Diagnose Drum Brake Binding

Identifying binding drum brakes often involves a few straightforward steps

- Visual Inspection Start with a visual inspection of the brake assembly for any obvious signs of wear, rust, or corrosion. Check for leaks from the wheel cylinders as well.

- Wheel Movement Test With the vehicle safely lifted, attempt to rotate the wheel by hand. If it does not turn freely, binding is likely present.

- Listen for Noises Pay attention for any unusual noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate that the components are rubbing against each other improperly.

- Brake Temperature After a short drive, carefully touch the brake drums to feel for excessive heat. If one drum is much hotter than the others, it likely indicates a binding issue.

Solutions to Drum Brake Binding

Resolving drum brake binding typically involves one or more of the following solutions

1. Replacing Worn Components If the brake shoes or drums are worn, they should be replaced. Always ensure that new parts match the vehicle's specifications.

2. Cleaning and Lubrication Rust and debris can usually be cleaned, and proper lubrication can be applied to the appropriate points to ensure smooth movement of the brake components.

3. Reinstalling Correctly If the installation appears to be the problem, the brake components should be removed and reinstalled precisely according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

4. Replacing Faulty Return Springs If the return springs are malfunctioning, replacing them will allow the brake shoes to retract completely.

5. Addressing Cylinder Issues If the wheel cylinder is leaking or malfunctioning, it should be replaced to ensure proper operation of the brakes.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes and solutions to drum brake binding is vital for vehicle maintenance and safety. Regular inspection and timely repairs can prevent more severe issues, enhancing the overall performance of the braking system. If you suspect that your vehicle's drum brakes are binding, seeking professional assistance is advisable to ensure safe and efficient braking.