how to adjust emergency brake on drum brakes

How to Adjust Emergency Brake on Drum Brakes

Drum brakes are a common type of braking system found in many vehicles, particularly older models and certain light trucks. While they may seem straightforward, maintaining the emergency brake—or parking brake—is crucial for ensuring that your vehicle remains securely in place when parked. Over time, the cables and components of the emergency brake can stretch, leading to a less effective braking system. Adjusting the emergency brake on drum brakes is a necessary task that can enhance safety and functionality. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these adjustments effectively.

Understanding the Components

Before diving into the adjustment process, it's essential to understand the components involved in the emergency brake system of drum brakes. The primary parts include

1. Parking Brake Lever Located inside the vehicle, usually between the front seats, this lever is pulled to engage the emergency brake. 2. Cables The parking brake lever is connected to the rear brakes via cables. Over time, these cables can stretch or become frayed. 3. Drum Brake Assembly This consists of parts such as the brake drum, brake shoes, and a backing plate. The brake shoes press against the drum to create friction and stop the wheels.

Tools You Will Need

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Wrench set - Screwdriver set - Brake cleaner - Lubricant - Ruler or measuring tape - Safety goggles and gloves

Steps to Adjust the Emergency Brake

Step 1 Safety First

Before beginning any mechanical adjustments, ensure you are in a safe environment. Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the regular brakes. Use wheel chocks to prevent any movement.

Step 2 Raising the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the rear of your vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

Remove the rear wheels to access the drum brake assemblies. This typically involves loosening the lug nuts with a wrench and pulling the wheels off.

Step 4 Examining the Brake Components

Inspect the condition of your drum brake components. Ensure that the brake shoes are not excessively worn, and check the cables for any signs of fraying or stretching. Clean any dust or debris from the drum and brake assembly using brake cleaner.

Step 5 Adjusting the Brake Shoes

Many drum brake systems allow for adjustment through an access port on the back of the drum. With a screwdriver, locate the adjuster wheel or star wheel inside the drum

- Turn the adjuster to expand the brake shoes slightly until you can just feel resistance when spinning the drum. - Aim for a snug but not overly tight fit—the drum should rotate freely but with minimal play.

Step 6 Adjusting the Parking Brake Cable

After adjusting the brake shoes, it's time to check the tension in the emergency brake cable

- Locate the adjusting nut on the parking brake cable. This is usually found under the vehicle near the rear axle. - Use a wrench to either tighten or loosen the adjusting nut. As a guideline, with the parking brake engaged, the handle should be pulled up about 3 to 5 clicks before the brakes engage.

Step 7 Reinstalling the Wheels

Once all adjustments are complete, carefully replace the drum and reinstall the rear wheels. Ensure that the lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 8 Lowering the Vehicle and Testing

Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Start the vehicle and test the emergency brake by engaging it. It should hold the vehicle securely on a slight incline. If not, repeat the adjustments until the desired tension is achieved.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and adjustment of your emergency brake are vital for the safe operation of your vehicle. By following these steps, you can ensure that your drum brake system functions effectively, providing you with peace of mind every time you park. If you are uncomfortable performing these adjustments yourself, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Safety always comes first!