Tips for Adjusting Rear Drum Brakes While in Reverse for Optimal Performance

How to Adjust Rear Drum Brakes in Reverse

Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safety on the road, and one key component is the rear drum brakes. Unlike disc brakes, drum brakes can require periodic adjustment to ensure they function correctly. This article will guide you through the process of adjusting rear drum brakes, particularly using the reverse method, which is an effective technique for achieving the correct brake shoe clearance.

Understanding Rear Drum Brakes

Before we delve into the adjustment process, it’s important to understand how rear drum brakes work. The brake drum rotates with the wheel, while brake shoes press against the inner surface of the drum to create friction and slow down or stop the vehicle. Over time, the friction material on the brake shoes wears down, potentially creating excessive clearance between the shoes and the drum, leading to a decrease in braking efficiency. This is where adjustment comes into play.

Tools Needed for Adjustment

To adjust your rear drum brakes, you will need the following tools

1. A jack and jack stands 2. A lug wrench 3. A brake adjustment tool (or standard screwdriver) 4. Safety goggles and gloves 5. A towel or rag for cleaning

1. Preparation Safety First - Begin by finding a flat, stable area to work. Park your vehicle and engage the parking brake. - Wearing safety goggles and gloves, loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly, but do not remove them yet.

2. Lift the Vehicle - Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

3. Remove the Rear Wheel - Detach the lug nuts completely and remove the rear wheel to expose the drum brake assembly.

4. Inspect the Brake Components - Before adjusting, inspect the brake shoes for wear, the drum for scoring, and the overall condition of the hardware. - If the brake shoes are too worn, consider replacing them. If the parts look good, you can proceed to adjustment.

5. Locate the Adjuster Mechanism - Inside the brake drum assembly, you will see the brake shoes and the adjuster mechanism, typically located between them. This adjusts the position of the shoes relative to the drum.

6. Adjusting the Shoes - Using a brake adjustment tool or a standard screwdriver, turn the adjuster. For most vehicles, turning it clockwise will extend the brake shoes outward toward the drum, while turning it counterclockwise will retract them. - As you adjust, you should hear a slight dragging noise when you rotate the drum by hand. The goal is to have the shoes just brush against the drum surface without creating too much resistance.

7. Test the Adjustment in Reverse - To properly finish the adjustment, it is recommended to drive the vehicle in reverse. This allows the brake shoes to self-adjust properly against the drum. - Drive the vehicle in reverse for about 10 to 20 feet while applying the brakes gently. This action helps ensure the brake shoes seat correctly against the drum.

8. Recheck Adjustments - After reversing, recheck the adjustment by spinning the drum. There should be minimal resistance. If the drum spins freely without abnormal scraping sounds, the adjustment is likely correct.

9. Reassemble and Test Drive - Replace the rear wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening. - Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and perform a test drive at low speeds to ensure the brakes feel solid and effective.

Conclusion

Adjusting rear drum brakes in reverse is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your vehicle's braking performance. Regular maintenance, including adjusting drum brakes, is vital for ensuring safety while driving. By following this guide, you can confidently perform brake adjustments while saving time and money on professional service. Remember, if you encounter excessive wear or damage during your inspection, consider consulting with a professional mechanic for further assistance. Safe driving!