how to adjust e brake on drum brakes

How to Adjust the E-Brake on Drum Brakes

The emergency brake, often referred to as the e-brake or handbrake, plays a crucial role in vehicle safety. It is primarily used to ensure that your vehicle remains stationary when parked, especially on an incline. For vehicles equipped with drum brakes, adjusting the e-brake is essential not only for optimal performance but also to prolong the lifespan of the braking system. This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of adjusting the e-brake on drum brakes.

Understanding the Components

Before diving into the adjustment process, it is important to familiarize yourself with the parts involved in the e-brake system. The e-brake operates through a cable that connects to the rear drum brakes, where it engages the brake shoes. This system includes various components, such as

- Brake Shoes These are the friction components that press against the inside of the drum. - Drum This houses the brake shoes and is attached to the wheel. - Adjuster A mechanism that compensates for the wear of the brake shoes over time. - E-Brake Cable This cable links the e-brake handle to the brake mechanism at the rear wheels.

Signs That Adjustment is Needed

Before adjusting your e-brake, you may first want to verify whether it indeed requires attention. Common signs that indicate an adjustment is necessary include

1. Increased Travel in the E-Brake Handle If you find that the handle pulls up significantly more than usual without engaging the brakes, it is time for an adjustment. 2. Vehicle Rolling on an Incline If your parked vehicle rolls backward or forward on a slope, it suggests that the e-brake might not be adequately engaged. 3. Uneven Brake Wear Noticing uneven wear on your brake shoes could also warrant an adjustment.

The Adjustment Process

Adjusting the e-brake on drum brakes can typically be done without professional help. Here’s a step-by-step guide

Tools Required

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Pliers - Screwdriver - Wrench set - E-Brake Tool (or a flathead screwdriver)

1. Safety First Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface, turn off the engine, and place wheel chocks behind the front wheels for added safety.

2. Access the Rear Wheels Using the lug wrench, loosen and remove the lug nuts. Then, jack up the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.

3. Remove the Rear Wheels Once the car is elevated, remove the rear wheels to gain access to the drum brakes.

4. Inspect the Drum Look for the adjustment holes located on the rear of the drum or inside the drum itself. These holes allow access to the adjuster mechanism.

5. Adjust the Brakes Using a screwdriver or an e-brake tool, turn the adjuster to expand or retract the brake shoes. - If the shoes are too tight Turn the adjuster counter-clockwise to retract the shoes. - If the shoes are too loose Turn the adjuster clockwise to expand the shoes.

6. Check the E-Brake Cable Ensure the e-brake cable has sufficient tension. If it seems too loose, locate the adjuster mechanism attached to the e-brake handle inside the car and tighten it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

7. Reassemble After the adjustments are complete, reinstall the drums and rear wheels. Tighten the lug nuts securely.

8. Lower the Vehicle Safely remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

9. Test the Brake Before fully relying on the e-brake, test it by pulling the handle to see if it engages effectively. Try the parked vehicle on a slight incline to ensure it holds properly.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and adjustment of your e-brake are crucial to ensure your vehicle's safety. While the task of adjusting e-brakes on drum brakes may seem daunting, following these steps can lead to successful results. Always remember that if you're uncertain or uncomfortable performing any of these steps, seeking professional assistance is always a wise choice. Keeping your vehicle's braking system in optimal condition will not only improve safety but also enhance overall driving experience.