how to adjust drum brakes by backing up

How to Adjust Drum Brakes by Backing Up

Drum brakes are an essential component of many vehicles, providing reliable stopping power through a system that utilizes friction. Unlike disc brakes, drum brakes have a more complex mechanism, which can require adjustment over time due to wear and tear. One practical way to adjust your drum brakes is by backing up. In this article, we will discuss why adjustment is necessary, how to back up for adjustment, and some tips to ensure the process is effective.

Why Adjust Drum Brakes?

Over time, the brake shoes within the drum can wear down, leading to a decrease in braking efficiency. As these shoes wear, they may not engage sufficiently with the drum, increasing stopping distances and compromising your vehicle's safety. Regular adjustments help maintain optimal function, ensuring that the shoes make proper contact with the drum. This not only enhances braking performance but also prolongs the life of the braking components.

The Process of Adjusting Drum Brakes by Backing Up

Adjusting your drum brakes while backing up is a simple yet effective method. Here’s how to do it

1. Prepare Your Vehicle Begin by ensuring your vehicle is on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake, and gather the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, and possibly a wheel chock for added safety.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels to gain access to the drum brakes. If your vehicle has a brake drum cover, it may need to be removed as well.

3. Inspect the Brakes Before you begin the adjustment process, take a moment to inspect the brake shoes and drum for any signs of wear or damage. If the shoes are worn down too far or the drum is scored, you may need to replace them rather than simply adjusting.

4. Locate the Adjuster Within the drum assembly, there is typically an adjusting mechanism, often a star wheel. This adjuster is responsible for moving the brake shoes closer or further from the drum.

5. Adjust the Brakes While some vehicles have an external adjustment feature, many require adjustment from within the drum. Using a brake adjuster tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjuster until you feel resistance from the shoes against the drum. Make sure not to over-tighten, as this can cause dragging and unnecessary wear.

6. Back Up to Set the Adjustment After you've made your adjustments, it’s time to utilize the backing up method. Start the vehicle and slowly back up in a straight line for about 20-30 feet. This action helps seat the brake shoes against the drum properly and allows any excess slack in the system to be taken up.

7. Test the Brakes After backing up, come to a complete stop and then move the vehicle forward again. Apply the brakes gently to ensure they engage smoothly and effectively. If everything feels right, you’ve properly adjusted your drum brakes.

8. Reassemble and Lower the Vehicle Once satisfied with the adjustments, reattach the wheels (and any drum covers) securely. Lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands.

Tips for Effective Drum Brake Adjustment

- Regular Maintenance Make it a habit to check your brakes at regular intervals. This will allow you to catch issues early and adjust them before they become major problems.

- Listen for Noise If you notice any grinding or unusual noises while braking, this may be an indication that your drum brakes need adjustment or that other issues may be present.

- Brake Fluid Check Always check your brake fluid level when performing brake maintenance. Low fluid levels can affect brake function, regardless of how well your brakes are adjusted.

In conclusion, adjusting drum brakes by backing up is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your vehicle's braking performance. Regular attention to your brake system not only ensures safety but also contributes to a more comfortable driving experience. If you’re unsure about performing adjustments yourself, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic.