how to adjust new drum brakes

How to Adjust New Drum Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a common braking system found in many vehicles, especially older models and some newer budget-conscious cars. When you install new drum brakes, it’s essential to ensure they are adjusted correctly to maintain optimal braking performance and safety. This article will guide you through the process of adjusting new drum brakes, allowing you to perform the task effectively and safely.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the adjustment process, let’s briefly understand how drum brakes work. Drum brakes consist of a hollow drum that rotates with the wheel, and brake shoes that are pressed against the inner surface of the drum when the brake pedal is engaged. This friction slows down the vehicle. Proper adjustment of the brake shoes ensures that they make contact with the drum securely and efficiently, enhancing braking performance.

Tools Required

To adjust your drum brakes, you will need some basic tools. Here’s a checklist 1. Jack and jack stands 2. Lug wrench 3. Brake adjustment tool (or a flat-blade screwdriver) 4. Wrench set 5. Clean rags 6. Brake cleaner

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Drum Brakes

1. Prepare Your Vehicle - Park your vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the ignition. - Loosen the lug nuts but do not remove them entirely. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the drum brake.

2. Inspect the Brake Components - Before adjusting the brakes, inspect the brake shoes, drum, and other components for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any defective parts before proceeding.

3. Locate the Adjustment Screw - Inside the drum, you will find the brake shoes held in place by springs, with an adjustment screw typically located between the shoes. This screw controls how far the shoes expand as they press against the drum.

4. Adjust the Brake Shoes - Turn the adjustment screw using your brake adjustment tool or flat-blade screwdriver. To expand the brake shoes, turn the screw clockwise; to retract them, turn it counterclockwise. - Ideally, you want to adjust the shoes just until they start to drag slightly against the drum. This ensures there’s enough clearance when the brakes are not engaged but also guarantees an effective braking response.

5. Reassemble the Components - Replace the drum onto the hub, making sure it sits properly. Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and then tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.

6. Test the Brakes - Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the shoes against the drum. Start the vehicle and take it for a short test drive. Test the brakes at low speed to ensure they engage smoothly and effectively. If there’s a noticeable grinding sound or if the brakes feel spongy, recheck the adjustment. 7. Final Check - After the test drive, recheck the lug nut tightness and inspect for proper brake operation. If necessary, repeat the adjustment process for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Adjusting new drum brakes is a crucial step in ensuring your vehicle's safety and performance. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can perform this maintenance task yourself, saving on mechanic costs and gaining a deeper understanding of your vehicle's braking system. Remember, if you are ever unsure about brake adjustments or any vehicle maintenance, seeking professional assistance is always a wise choice. Safety should never be compromised!