Steps to Properly Adjust Handbrake on Drum Brake Systems for Optimal Performance

How to Adjust the Handbrake on Drum Brakes

Adjusting the handbrake on a vehicle equipped with drum brakes is an essential maintenance task that can improve the effectiveness of the brake system and enhance driving safety. Over time, the handbrake can lose its effectiveness due to cable stretch, wear on the brake shoes, or simply through the natural settling of the brake system. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly adjust your handbrake on drum brakes.

Understanding the Handbrake Mechanism

Before we dive into the adjustment process, it's important to understand how the handbrake, or parking brake, functions in a drum brake system. When you pull the handbrake lever, a cable is pulled which activates the brake shoes against the inner surface of the drum, creating friction to hold the vehicle stationary. If the handbrake feels loose or the vehicle rolls slightly when parked, it’s probably time for an adjustment.

Tools You'll Need

- Jack and jack stands - Wheel chocks - Basic hand tools (wrench, screwdriver) - Torque wrench - Brake cleaner (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1 Safety First

Before you begin, ensure safety by parking your vehicle on a flat surface and chocking the wheels. This prevents any movement while you’re working on the brakes. Additionally, make sure the vehicle is in ‘Park’ (for automatics) or in gear (for manuals).

Step 2 Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle, and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable before you start working.

Step 3 Remove the Wheel

Using the appropriate tools, remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheel where you are adjusting the handbrake. This will expose the drum brake assembly.

Step 4 Inspect the Brake System

Before adjusting the handbrake, inspect the brake shoes and drum for wear and damage. If the shoes are significantly worn down, they may need replacement. Ensure that there is no excessive dirt or grease on the components, which can hinder performance.

Step 5 Access the Adjuster

Locate the brake adjuster within the drum. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, this could be a star wheel or a threaded mechanism. If the access hole for adjustment is not visible, you may need to remove the drum itself.

Step 6 Adjust the Brake Shoes

To adjust, turn the adjuster in a clockwise direction to expand the brake shoes inward, or counterclockwise to retract them. You should aim for the brake shoes to touch the drum lightly. There should be a little resistance when turning the drum by hand—if it’s too tight, back off the adjustment slightly until you achieve a balance.

Step 7 Check the Handbrake Cable

Next, examine the handbrake cable. If it appears frayed or damaged, it may need replacement. If the cable is still functional but too loose, locate the adjustment nut usually found between the handbrake lever and the rear brakes. Tighten this nut until you achieve the appropriate tension—usually, a pull of about 5-7 clicks should hold the vehicle on a slight slope.

Step 8 Reassemble

Once you are satisfied with the adjustment, reattach the drum if it was removed, and replace the wheel. Make sure to lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 9 Test the Handbrake

Before lowering the vehicle, test the handbrake by pulling the lever to check for resistance. Make sure it engages firmly and holds the vehicle in place. If it does not seem right, double-check your adjustments and repeat the process if necessary.

Step 10 Lower the Vehicle and Test Drive

Finally, lower the vehicle from the jack stands, remove the wheel chocks, and take the vehicle for a short drive to test the functionality of the handbrake. Listen for any unusual noises and check for effectiveness on a slight incline.

Conclusion

Regularly adjusting your handbrake not only maintains its effectiveness but also contributes to overall vehicle safety. If at any point you feel uncomfortable performing these adjustments yourself, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional mechanic. Proper maintenance will keep your handbrake functional and ensure your car remains safe to drive, especially on inclines where a solid handbrake is crucial.