how do you adjust drum brakes

How to Adjust Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are a critical component of many vehicles, providing crucial stopping power and safety. Over time, drum brakes may require adjustment to maintain optimal performance, especially as the brake shoes wear down. Here, we will guide you through the process of adjusting drum brakes in a clear and systematic manner.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the adjustment process, it's essential to understand the basic components of drum brakes. The primary parts include the brake drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and the adjustment mechanism. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure pushes the wheel cylinder to extend the brake shoes against the inner surface of the drum, creating friction that slows the vehicle down.

Signs That Your Drum Brakes Need Adjustment

You may notice several signs indicating that your drum brakes require adjustment. These can include

- A longer stopping distance than usual - A grinding noise when brakes are applied - The brake pedal feeling lower than normal - Uneven braking performance (pulling to one side)

If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time to adjust your drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Wrenches or ratchets - Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips depending on your vehicle) - Brake grease

Step-by-Step Adjustment Process

1. Safety First Begin by parking your vehicle on a flat surface and engaging the parking brake. Ensure the car is securely in place before lifting it.

2. Remove the Wheel Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle with a jack. Once elevated, remove the lug nuts entirely and take off the wheel to access the drum brake assembly.

3. Inspect the Brake Components Check the brake shoes, drum, and other components for wear and damage. If the shoes are worn down significantly, consider replacing them instead of just adjusting.

4. Find the Adjustment Mechanism Most drum brakes have an adjustment wheel or screw located near the bottom of the assembly. This mechanism can be adjusted to expand or contract the brake shoes' contact with the drum.

5. Adjusting the Brake Shoes If the adjustment wheel is present, use a flathead screwdriver to turn it. Typically, turning the wheel upward (clockwise) tightens the brake shoes against the drum, while turning it downward (counter-clockwise) loosens them. It’s important to turn the adjustment wheel gradually and check the fit frequently.

6. Check the Clearance As you adjust, spin the brake drum. There should be a slight drag; however, it should not be too tight. If the shoes are too tight, the drum will not spin freely. Aim for a balanced adjustment where the drum can turn with some resistance but not outright friction.

7. Repeat for the Other Side After adjusting one side, repeat the same process for the opposite brake assembly. It is crucial to keep both sides evenly adjusted to achieve optimal braking performance.

8. Reassemble the Wheel Once both sides have been adjusted, carefully reattach the brake drum if removed, followed by the wheel. Hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle back to the ground, then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even torque.

9. Test the Brakes After reassembling everything, take the vehicle for a test drive in a safe area. Pay attention to the brake feel, listening for any unusual noises and checking for proper function.

Conclusion

Adjusting drum brakes may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done with relative ease. Regular maintenance and adjustments can extend the life of your brakes, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Always remember, when in doubt, consult with or hire a professional mechanic to handle your brake issues, as safety should always be the top priority.