Tips for Properly Adjusting Your Drum Brakes for Optimal Performance

How to Adjust Drum Brakes

Drum brakes are a common braking system used in many vehicles, especially in older models and on the rear wheels of some cars. Over time, the braking components can wear down, leading to decreased performance. Regular adjustment is essential to ensure they function effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to adjusting drum brakes.

1. Safety First

Before beginning any maintenance work on your vehicle, ensure you take safety precautions. Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Wear safety gloves and goggles to protect yourself from debris and sharp edges.

2. Gather Your Tools

You will need basic tools, including a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a brake adjuster tool (or a flathead screwdriver), and a torque wrench. If you need to access the brake assembly, you may also require an Allen wrench or a socket set.

3. Raise the Vehicle

Using the jack, lift the vehicle off the ground. Secure it with jack stands to ensure it remains stable while you work. If you're adjusting all four drum brakes, you'll need to raise both the front and rear of the vehicle.

4. Remove the Wheels

Once the vehicle is securely raised, use the lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts and take off the wheels. This will provide you with access to the drum brakes.

5. Inspect the Brake Components

Before adjusting, take a moment to inspect the brake components. Look for wear on the brake shoes, the drum surface, and any signs of leaks or damage. If the shoes or drums are worn beyond repair, they may need to be replaced before adjusting.

6. Adjust the Brake Shoes

Locate the brake adjuster mechanism, which is typically found on the backside of the drum brake assembly. If you're using a brake adjuster tool, insert it through the access hole in the brake drum’s backing plate. Turn the adjuster wheel to widen the gap between the brake shoes and the drum. You want to make sure the shoes are just barely touching the drum for optimal braking.

As a rule of thumb, you should adjust the brakes until the shoes create slight drag against the drum when you spin it. This ensures that the brakes will engage effectively when you apply the brake pedal.

7. Reassemble the Wheel

After making the adjustments, replace the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back onto the ground, and then use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque setting.

8. Test the Brakes

Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure everything is seated correctly. Once the brakes feel firm, take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the adjustments have improved performance.

Conclusion

Adjusting drum brakes can enhance your vehicle’s braking efficiency and prolong the life of your brake components. Regular maintenance, including brake adjustments, is vital for safe driving. If you find your brakes still underperform after adjustment, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic.