how to adjust handbrake on drum brakes

How to Adjust Handbrake on Drum Brakes

Maintaining a safe and effective handbrake is essential for any vehicle, especially those equipped with drum brakes. Over time, the handbrake might lose its effectiveness due to wear and tear or improper adjustment. Fortunately, adjusting the handbrake on drum brakes can be a straightforward task if you follow the correct steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to adjust your handbrake efficiently.

Tools You Will Need 1. Jack and jack stands 2. Wheel chocks 3. Socket and wrench set 4. Screwdriver 5. Brake cleaner (optional) 6. Service manual for your vehicle (for specific instructions)

Step 1 Safety First Before you start working on your vehicle, ensure safety by parking it on a flat surface and engaging the regular brakes. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent any unintended movement. If you're working on the rear brakes, you’ll want to raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.

Step 2 Inspect the Handbrake Mechanism Once your vehicle is safely elevated, locate the handbrake mechanism. The adjustment for the handbrake on drum brakes can often be found at the rear of the vehicle, typically near the brake drum or at the lever inside the car. Check for any visible wear or damage. If the brakes are worn down, it may be time to replace the brake shoes.

Step 3 Adjust the Handbrake Cable Using a socket or wrench, loosen the adjustment nut located on the handbrake cable. This nut can usually be found near where the cable attaches to the handbrake lever or near the rear brakes. After loosening the nut, pull the cable and make adjustments until there’s a slight free play in the handbrake lever. Typically, about 3-5 clicks of the handbrake lever should suffice for optimal function.

Step 4 Adjust the Brake Shoes Within the drum brakes, the brake shoes might need to be adjusted as well. Remove the brake drum by taking off any retaining clips and gently pulling the drum away from the assembly. Behind the drum, you’ll see the brake shoes. Using a screwdriver, adjust the star wheel adjuster to expand the brake shoes slightly. This helps in achieving a tighter fit against the drum, improving performance. Be careful not to over-adjust, as this can lead to dragging brakes.

Step 5 Reassemble and Test Once the adjustments are made, reattach the brake drum and the retaining clips. Lower the vehicle back to the ground securely. Engage the handbrake several times to settle it in the new position. Check how many clicks it takes for the handbrake to hold the vehicle securely on a slope. It should hold without slipping.

Step 6 Final Checks Take the vehicle for a short drive and test the effectiveness of the handbrake. If it still seems ineffective, you may need to revisit the adjustments or consult a professional mechanic for further inspection.

In conclusion, adjusting the handbrake on drum brakes is a task that can enhance your vehicle’s safety and performance. By following these steps diligently and regularly maintaining your brakes, you can ensure that your handbrake operates effectively and provides peace of mind on the road.