Steps to Properly Adjusting Electric Drum Brakes for Optimal Performance

How to Adjust Electric Drum Brakes

Electric drum brakes are essential components in many vehicles, especially those equipped with trailers. Properly adjusting these brakes ensures optimal performance and safety, preventing issues such as excessive wear or inadequate braking. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to adjust electric drum brakes effectively.

Understanding the Components

Before beginning the adjustment process, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the primary components of electric drum brakes. These include the brake drum, brake shoes, electric magnet, and the adjuster mechanism. Understanding how these parts work together will facilitate the adjustment process.

Tools Required

To adjust electric drum brakes, you’ll need a few basic tools a jack and jack stands, a tire iron, a screwdriver, and a brake adjustment tool. Having these tools ready will help streamline the adjustment procedure.

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

Start by parking the vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. This will ensure stability while you work. If you're adjusting trailer brakes, make sure the trailer is secured and the vehicle is in park.

Step 2 Remove the Wheel

Using the tire iron, loosen the lug nuts slightly before raising the vehicle with a jack. Once the vehicle is elevated, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel to expose the brake drum.

Step 3 Inspect the Brakes

Before making adjustments, inspect the brake shoes for wear and tear. Ensure that the brake drum is not scored and that the electric magnet is functioning correctly. If any components are damaged or excessively worn, they should be replaced before proceeding.

Step 4 Adjust the Brake Shoes

Most electric drum brakes have a self-adjusting mechanism, but they may still require manual adjustment. Locate the adjustment slot on the brake backing plate. Using a brake adjustment tool or screwdriver, turn the adjuster wheel. Turn it clockwise to expand the brake shoes until they just contact the inside of the drum, ensuring a slight drag but not too tight as to prevent the drum from spinning freely.

Step 5 Test the Brakes

After adjusting the shoes, reassemble the wheel and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and repeat the adjustment process on the other side if necessary. Once adjustments are complete, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how the brakes respond.

Conclusion

Regularly adjusting your electric drum brakes not only enhances safety but also extends the lifespan of the braking system. If you’re unsure about any part of this process or encounter significant issues, it's advisable to consult a professional mechanic. Remember, maintaining your braking system is crucial for safe driving.