how do you adjust drum brakes

How to Adjust Drum Brakes

Adjusting drum brakes is an important maintenance task that ensures safe and effective braking performance in your vehicle. If you notice that your brake pedal feels lower than usual or if there is a grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it might be time to adjust your drum brakes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform this adjustment.

Tools Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the necessary tools a jack and jack stands, a lug wrench, a brake adjustment tool (or a flathead screwdriver), and a flashlight.

Step 1 Safety First

Begin by parking your vehicle on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent rolling. If you’re working on the front brakes, you may need to chock the rear as well.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you’ll be adjusting the drum brakes. Once they’re loose, use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel completely to access the drum.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Components

Before adjusting, take the time to inspect the brake drum and shoes for wear and damage. Look for scoring or rust on the drum and check the thickness of the brake shoes. If they are excessively worn, consider replacing them instead of adjusting.

Step 4 Locate the Adjuster

Inside the drum, there will be an adjuster mechanism. This is typically a screw or star wheel that can be turned to increase or decrease the distance between the brake shoes and the drum. Use your flashlight to locate this adjuster.

Step 5 Adjust the Brakes

Using a brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjuster wheel. If the brake shoes are too far from the drum, turn the adjuster to expand them until they lightly contact the drum. You should be able to spin the drum with slight resistance. Avoid over-tightening, as this can lead to brake drag.

Step 6 Reassemble and Test

Once the adjustment is made, place the wheel back on, tighten the lug nuts, and lower the vehicle. Repeat the process for the other wheel if necessary. Finally, test drive your vehicle at low speeds to ensure the brakes are functioning properly.

Regular maintenance and adjustment of your drum brakes are crucial for safe driving. By following these steps, you can ensure your brake system operates efficiently. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it is always best to consult a professional mechanic.