Installing Parking Brake Cable for Drum Brake Systems

Installing Parking Brake Cable for Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Parking brakes, also known as emergency brakes, play a critical role in ensuring your vehicle remains stationary when parked. Their proper operation is especially crucial in drum brake systems, which are commonly used in many vehicles. Over time, parking brake cables can wear out or become damaged, necessitating their replacement. This article provides a detailed guide on how to install a parking brake cable for drum brakes, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Tools and Materials Required

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools and materials

- New parking brake cable - Ratchet and socket set - Wrenches - Screwdrivers - Pliers - Jack and jack stands - Brake cleaner - Lubricant - Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1 Preparation

Begin by ensuring the vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the regular brake and set the vehicle in “Park” (for automatic transmissions) or in gear (for manual transmissions). Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels to gain access to the brake assembly.

Step 2 Remove the Old Parking Brake Cable

Using your tools, locate the connection points of the old parking brake cable. Typically, this cable runs from the parking brake lever inside the vehicle to the backing plate of the drum brake. Disconnect the cable from the lever first.

Next, follow the cable to where it connects to the drum brakes. You may need to remove other components such as the drum or brake shoe to access the cable properly. Once you have access, unhook the cable from its anchoring points. Keep all components safe as you will need them for reassembly.

Take the new parking brake cable and feed it through the same path as the old one. Make sure that it runs smoothly without any twists or sharp bends. Connect the cable to the rear brake assembly first; this usually involves attaching it to the lever on the brake shoes. Ensure it is secure and moves freely.

Next, bring the other end of the cable inside the vehicle and connect it to the parking brake lever. Adjust the connection to allow for some slack, as it will tighten once the brakes are engaged.

Step 4 Adjust the Parking Brake

Once everything is connected, it’s important to adjust the parking brake. This ensures that the brake engages securely without being overly tight. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific adjustment procedures, as they can vary by make and model.

Generally, you will want to pull the parking brake lever several times and check the brake’s engagement. If it feels too loose, you may need to tighten the adjustment at the lever or the brake compensator according to your manual’s instructions.

Step 5 Test the Installation

After installation, it’s time to test the new parking brake cable. With the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake and attempt to move the vehicle gently. The vehicle should not roll. If it does, adjust the cable again until it holds securely.

Lastly, reassemble any components you may have removed, put the wheels back on, and carefully lower the vehicle.

Conclusion

Installing a new parking brake cable for drum brakes can significantly enhance your vehicle's safety and reliability. While it’s a task that may seem daunting at first, following this step-by-step guide can make the process manageable. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific details related to your model to ensure a successful installation.