Steps for Correctly Adjusting Drum Brake Shoes for Optimal Performance

How to Adjust Brake Shoes on Drum Brakes

Brake systems are crucial to the overall safety and performance of any vehicle. Among the various types of brake systems, drum brakes are a common choice, especially in older vehicles and some light-duty trucks. Unlike disc brakes, drum brakes rely on brake shoes to press against the inner surface of a drum to create friction and slow down the vehicle. Over time, these brake shoes can wear down, necessitating adjustment or replacement to ensure optimal performance. In this article, we will cover the step-by-step process of adjusting brake shoes on drum brakes.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before you dive into the adjustment process, it's important to have a clear understanding of how drum brakes work. Drum brakes consist of a cylindrical drum that rotates with the wheel and brake shoes that press against the inner surface of the drum when the brakes are applied. The shoes are lined with friction material that wears down over time, which can lead to decreased braking efficiency. Regular adjustment can help maintain the proper gap between the drum and the shoes, ensuring consistent performance.

Tools Needed

To adjust your brake shoes, you will need the following tools

1. Car jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) 4. Brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver 5. Brake cleaner 6. Shop towels 7. Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Adjustment Process

1. Preparation Begin by parking your vehicle on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent rolling, and then loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on but do not remove them completely.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use the car jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before moving on to the next step.

3. Remove the Wheel Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the drum brake assembly.

4. Inspect the Brake Assembly Before making any adjustments, inspect the drum, brake shoes, and other components for wear and damage. If the brake shoes are excessively worn or cracked, replacement may be necessary.

5. Locate the Adjuster Mechanism In most drum brake systems, there is an adjustment wheel or star wheel located at the bottom of the brake assembly. This mechanism is used to adjust the position of the brake shoes.

6. Adjust the Brake Shoes Using a brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the star wheel to adjust the brake shoes. Typically, turning it in one direction will expand the shoes, bringing them closer to the drum, while turning it the opposite way will retract them. Make small adjustments and check frequently to avoid over-adjusting.

7. Check Drum Clearance After making adjustments, spin the drum to ensure it moves freely. You should feel slight resistance as the shoes come in contact with the drum but no grinding noise. If the drum is too tight, retract the shoes slightly.

8. Reassemble the Wheel Once satisfied with the adjustment, reattach the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground and then tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

9. Test the Brakes Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the brake shoes properly. Conduct a short test drive to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly and that there are no unusual noises or sensations.

10. Repeat as Necessary If you have drum brakes on both sides, repeat these steps on the opposite wheel to ensure both sides are adjusted evenly.

Conclusion

Adjusting brake shoes on drum brakes is an essential maintenance task that can help ensure your vehicle stops safely and efficiently. By following these steps carefully, you can extend the life of your brake components and improve overall vehicle safety. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it is always advisable to consult with a professional mechanic. Regular maintenance and timely adjustments will keep your brake system in good working condition, ensuring your safety on the road.