rear drum brake adjustment

Rear Drum Brake Adjustment A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is crucial for safety. One of the most vital components of many older vehicles is the rear drum brake system. Unlike disc brakes, drum brakes can sometimes require more frequent adjustments to ensure optimal performance. In this article, we will explore the importance of rear drum brake adjustment, how to perform the adjustment yourself, and when to seek professional assistance.

Importance of Proper Adjustment

Rear drum brakes use a set of brake shoes to press against a rotating drum, creating friction to slow down or stop the vehicle. Over time, due to wear and tear, the brake shoes can become misaligned or lose their effectiveness. If left unadjusted, this can lead to several issues, including reduced braking efficiency, uneven tire wear, and, in extreme cases, brake failure.

Regularly adjusting your rear drum brakes ensures that the shoes maintain proper contact with the drum. This not only enhances braking capability but also prolongs the lifespan of both the shoes and the drum. A well-adjusted brake system also contributes to improved vehicle handling and stability.

Tools You Will Need

Before diving into the adjustment process, gather the necessary tools. You will typically need - A jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake adjustment tool or flathead screwdriver - Brake cleaner - Rags - Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Adjustment Process

1. Safety First Begin by parking your vehicle on a flat surface, engaging the parking brake, and placing wheel chocks around the front wheels. This ensures that the car remains stationary during the adjustment.

2. Jack Up the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle, and securely place jack stands underneath to support it. Remove the rear wheels using the lug wrench.

3. Accessing the Brake Assembly Once the wheels are off, locate the drum brake assembly. You might need to remove the brake drum. If the drums are stuck, gently tap around the edge with a hammer or use a brake drum puller.

4. Inspect the Components Before making any adjustments, inspect the brake shoes, springs, and hardware for wear. Replace any worn or damaged parts.

5. Adjusting the Brake Shoes With the brake drum removed, locate the adjuster wheel, which is usually found at the bottom of the brake assembly. Use a brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver to turn the adjuster - Tighten the adjuster to expand the brake shoes until they make slight contact with the drum. - Then, back off the adjuster slightly to ensure smooth rotation of the drum. The drum should turn freely but offer slight resistance.

6. Reassemble the Brakes Once the shoes are adjusted, reattach the brake drum. Make sure it seats evenly without any wobble. Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

7. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Repeat the process on the other side.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you are not comfortable performing brake adjustments yourself or if you notice persistent issues with your braking system, it’s advisable to consult a professional mechanic. Complaints such as grinding noises, pulling to one side when braking, or a spongy brake pedal can indicate more severe underlying issues that may require expert attention.

Conclusion

Adjusting your rear drum brakes is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that can significantly affect safety and performance. By understanding the adjustment process and ensuring regular checks, you can help prolong the life of your braking system and maintain optimal performance. Always prioritize safety, and when in doubt, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. With proper care and attention, you can ensure that your vehicle remains a safe and reliable mode of transport.