Tips for Properly Adjusting Brake Drums on Your Vehicle for Enhanced Performance

How to Adjust Brake Drums on Cars

Brake drums play a crucial role in your vehicle's braking system. They house the brake shoes, which press against the inner surface of the drum to slow down or stop the car. Over time, brake drums can become out of alignment or worn, affecting your vehicle's braking efficiency. Adjusting brake drums is an essential maintenance task that ensures your braking system functions properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to adjust brake drums on cars.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - Brake cleaner - A brake adjustment tool or flathead screwdriver - Safety goggles and gloves - A torque wrench (optional) - Replacement brake shoes (if needed)

Step 1 Safety First

To ensure a safe working environment, park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from dust and debris.

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

Using the lug wrench, loosen the wheel nuts on the rear tires (if your car has rear drum brakes). Then, use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel to access the brake drum.

Before adjusting, inspect the brake drum and shoes for wear and damage. Look for any signs of scoring or cracks on the drum surface, as well as any substantial wear on the brake shoes. If the shoes or drum are worn out, it’s best to replace them instead of adjusting.

Step 4 Locate the Adjusting Mechanism

Most drum brakes have a star wheel adjuster located at the bottom of the brake assembly. This mechanism is crucial for adjusting the brake shoes. In some cases, you may also find an access hole on the backing plate to reach the adjuster.

Step 5 Adjust the Brake Shoes

Using your brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the star wheel adjuster. To tighten, turn the wheel upwards, and to loosen, turn it downwards. Your goal is to raise the brake shoes until they just touch the inside of the drum without dragging.

As you adjust, spin the drum to ensure it rotates freely. You may need to make several adjustments until the brake shoes are set correctly.

Step 6 Reassemble and Test

Once you’ve successfully adjusted the brake shoes, reattach the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even distribution. Lower the car and remove the jack stands. Reattach the wheel and lower it to the ground, then re-tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.

Step 7 Test Drive

After reassembling everything, take your car for a short test drive. Pay attention to the braking response; the brakes should engage smoothly and effectively. If you notice any unusual sounds or if the brakes feel spongy, you may need to readjust or inspect the system further.

Conclusion

Adjusting brake drums is an essential part of vehicle maintenance, helping to ensure the safety and performance of your car. By following these steps, you can keep your braking system in good condition. If at any point you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Regular checks and adjustments not only enhance your driving experience but also extend the life of your braking components.