how to adjust rear drum brakes

How to Adjust Rear Drum Brakes

Rear drum brakes are a critical component of your vehicle's braking system, providing essential stopping power. Over time, the brake shoes within the drum can wear down, leading to decreased performance. Properly adjusting your rear drum brakes can enhance braking efficiency and extend the life of your brake components. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to adjust them effectively.

Tools Required

1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Brake adjuster tool or flathead screwdriver 4. Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

Begin by ensuring your vehicle is parked on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and wear safety goggles and gloves for protection. Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts of the rear wheels slightly—but do not remove them completely. Next, raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Once stable, remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels to access the drum brakes.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Components

Before making any adjustments, inspect the brake components for wear and damage. Examine the drum surface, brake shoes, and springs. If any component is excessively worn or damaged, consider replacing it rather than adjusting.

Step 3 Locate the Adjuster

Inside the drum, you’ll find an adjuster mechanism, typically a threaded rod or a star wheel. This is crucial for making adjustments. Depending on the design, you may need to access it through a small hole in the backing plate.

Step 4 Adjust the Brake Shoes

Using your brake adjuster tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjuster. If you’re using the star wheel, turning it in one direction will expand the brake shoes, while turning it in the opposite direction will retract them. As you adjust, periodically spin the drum to check for any contact. The goal is to achieve a slight drag that feels consistent.

Step 5 Reassemble the Wheel

Once you have adjusted the brake shoes to the correct position, carefully replace the drum over the shoes. Make sure it spins freely with just a hint of resistance. Once satisfied with the adjustment, reinstall the wheel, hand-tightening the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle back to the ground.

Step 6 Final Check

After the vehicle is back on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even seating. Finally, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure that the brake shoes are properly seated before driving.

Conclusion

Adjusting rear drum brakes is a straightforward process that can greatly improve your vehicle's braking performance. Regular maintenance and adjustment can prevent costly repairs and ensure safety on the road. If you’re unsure at any step or notice excessive wear, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. With the right tools and careful execution, you can keep your drum brakes functioning optimally for safe driving.