how to deglaze brake drums

How to Deglaze Brake Drums A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's braking system, one of the critical tasks that often gets overlooked is the deglazing of brake drums. Brake drums are integral to the braking system in vehicles, particularly those with drum brakes, and they can become glazed over time due to excessive heat and friction. This glazing can lead to diminished braking efficiency, making it essential to perform maintenance regularly. This article will guide you through the process of deglazing brake drums, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Understanding Brake Drum Glazing

Before diving into the deglazing process, it's important to understand what glazing is. Brake drum glazing occurs when the surface of the drum becomes smooth and shiny, often caused by overheating from aggressive driving, constant braking, or worn brake shoes. When this happens, the friction material on the brake shoes loses its effectiveness, leading to decreased stopping power and potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Signs Your Brake Drums Are Glazed

Recognizing the symptoms of glazed brake drums is crucial for timely maintenance. Common signs include

- Reduced braking performance Taking longer to stop than usual. - Squeaking or squealing sounds Noise coming from the brakes, indicating they are not engaging properly. - Vibration A pulsating feel when applying the brakes. - Visual inspection A shiny or mirror-like finish on the surface of the drum.

If you notice any of these signs, it's a good indication that deglazing is required.

Tools and Materials Needed

- Jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Sandpaper (80 to 120 grit) - A brake drum micrometer (optional) - Linings cleaning tool or wire brush - Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Deglazing Process

1. Preparation Start by ensuring your car is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is off. Put on safety goggles and gloves for protection.

2. Lifting the Vehicle Use a lug wrench to loosen the wheel nuts before lifting the car with a jack. Secure the vehicle using jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Removing the Wheel Once the car is securely raised, remove the wheel to access the brake drum.

4. Inspecting the Brake Drum Look for signs of glazing or severe wear. If the drum is excessively worn or damaged, replacement may be necessary. If the glazing is minimal, proceed with deglazing.

5. Cleaning the Drum Spray brake cleaner on the brake drum and wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris.

6. Deglazing the Drum Using 80 to 120 grit sandpaper, gently sand the surface of the brake drum in a circular motion. This process will remove the glazed layer and restore texture to the drum surface. Be cautious not to remove too much material; you want to create a rough surface for better contact with the brake shoes.

7. Cleaning the Brake Shoes While you have the brake drum off, check the brake shoes for wear. Use a linings cleaning tool or wire brush to clean them if there is buildup. If the shoes are worn down significantly, consider replacing them.

8. Reassembly Once the drum and shoes are adequately cleaned and deglazed, reinstall the brake drum and secure it according to the manufacturer's specifications. Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.

9. Lower the Vehicle Carefully lower your vehicle back to the ground, ensuring everything is secure.

10. Test Drive Finally, take your vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual sounds and observe the braking performance. If everything feels right, you've successfully deglazed your brake drums!

Conclusion

Deglazing brake drums is an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance that can significantly enhance your car's braking performance and safety. By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your braking system in optimal condition and prolong the lifespan of your brake components. Remember, if you're not comfortable performing this maintenance yourself, seeking professional assistance is always a good option. Safe driving is all about confidence in your vehicle's performance, and properly maintained brakes play a crucial role in achieving that confidence.