how to adjust handbrake on drum brakes

How to Adjust Handbrake on Drum Brakes

Adjusting the handbrake on drum brakes is an essential maintenance task that ensures your vehicle operates safely and effectively. A properly adjusted handbrake not only provides peace of mind when parked but also enhances the efficiency of the braking system. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to adjust the handbrake on drum brakes.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the adjustment process, it is vital to understand how drum brakes function. Drum brakes consist of a hollow drum that houses brake shoes. When the brake pedal is pressed, the shoes are forced outward against the drum, creating friction that slows down the vehicle. The handbrake, or emergency brake, operates independently of the regular braking system, often using the same set of shoes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools on hand 1. Jack and jack stands 2. Wheel chocks 3. Wrench set 4. Screwdriver 5. Brake cleaner (if necessary)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the regular parking brake, and place wheel chocks around the front wheels. This precaution prevents any unintended movement during the adjustment process.

2. Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

3. Remove the Wheel Take off the rear wheel to access the drum brake assembly. Use a wrench to loosen the lug nuts and remove them completely.

4. Inspect the Drum Brake With the wheel removed, inspect the brake drum and shoes for wear or damage. If the shoes are worn down, it may be time to replace them. Clean the brake components with brake cleaner if necessary.

5. Locate the Adjuster Inside the drum, find the adjuster mechanism. This is usually a star wheel that adjusts the spacing between the shoes and the drum.

6. Adjust the Brake Shoes Use a screwdriver to turn the adjuster clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on your vehicle's specifications. Turning the adjuster will either expand or contract the brake shoes' position.

7. Check the Adjustment To ensure proper adjustment, spin the drum after each adjustment. You should feel slight resistance, indicating that the shoes are properly positioned against the drum without being overly tight.

8. Finish Up Once the adjustment is correct, reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.

9. Test the Handbrake Before driving, test the handbrake to ensure it holds the vehicle securely when engaged. Pull the handbrake lever and observe how many clicks it takes to engage. Ideally, it should engage between 3 to 6 clicks.

Conclusion

Regularly checking and adjusting your handbrake can make a significant difference in your vehicle’s performance and safety. If you feel uncertain at any step of the adjustment process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Maintaining your brake system not only enhances safety but also extends the lifespan of your vehicle's components.