Steps to Properly Adjust Emergency Brake on Drum Brake Systems

How to Adjust the Emergency Brake on Drum Brakes

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is essential for safety and performance. One of the key components of this system is the emergency brake, often referred to as the parking brake. In vehicles equipped with drum brakes, adjusting the emergency brake is crucial to ensure it functions effectively. In this article, we'll discuss how to adjust the emergency brake on drum brakes, ensuring your vehicle is safe and ready for the road.

Understanding the Emergency Brake

The emergency brake serves as a secondary braking system, primarily used to secure the vehicle when parked. It typically operates independently from the primary braking system, which includes the disc or drum brakes that engage when pressing the brake pedal. In drum brake systems, the emergency brake operates through a separate set of shoes that press against the inside of the drum when engaged.

Tools Required

Before you begin the adjustment process, gather the following tools

1. A floor jack and jack stands 2. A wrench or socket set 3. A Phillips or flathead screwdriver 4. A tire iron 5. Brake cleaner (optional) 6. Gloves and safety goggles

Steps to Adjust the Emergency Brake

1. Preparation - Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the regular brake. - Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly without removing them.

2. Lift the Vehicle - Using the floor jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and securely position jack stands under the recommended points according to your vehicle’s manual.

3. Remove the Wheels - Remove the lug nuts and then take off the rear wheels to access the drum brakes.

4. Inspect the Brake Components - Before making any adjustments, inspect the drum brake assembly for wear and damage. Look for any signs of leakage, excessive wear on the brake shoes, or issues with the drum itself. If any components appear worn, consider replacing them.

5. Locate the Adjusting Mechanism - Inside the drum brake assembly, you will find the adjusting mechanism, typically a star wheel or a lever connected to the brake shoes. This is what you will adjust to change the tension of the emergency brake.

6. Adjust the Brake Shoes - To tighten the brake shoes, turn the adjusting wheel or lever. Turn it in the direction that brings the shoes closer to the drum. Make small adjustments; typically, a quarter to a half turn is sufficient. After each adjustment, check the gap between the brake shoes and the drum.

7. Test the Emergency Brake - Before reassembling everything, pull the emergency brake lever or push the pedal to test the shoes. You should feel resistance, and the brake should hold the vehicle firmly when engaged.

8. Reassemble the Components - Once you are satisfied with the adjustment, reattach the wheels and screw the lug nuts back on. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands carefully.

9. Final Check - After the vehicle is back on the ground, test the emergency brake again. Ensure it can hold the weight of the vehicle when parked on an incline.

10. Cleaning Up - Dispose of any materials used during the process properly and take care of your tools.

Conclusion

Adjusting the emergency brake on drum brakes is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your vehicle's safety. Regular maintenance and adjustments will ensure that your emergency brake remains effective when you need it most. If at any point you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, seeking professional assistance is always a wise choice. Remember, a well-maintained braking system is vital for safe driving. Whether it’s routine adjustments or comprehensive repairs, always prioritize your vehicle’s braking health.