how to adjust drum brakes

How to Adjust Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are a common braking system found in many vehicles, particularly older models and some current ones. Adjusting drum brakes is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Over time, drum brakes can wear out, leading to reduced braking efficiency. If you notice that your brakes feel spongy or the pedal goes closer to the floor than usual, it's time to adjust them. This article will guide you through the process of adjusting drum brakes in a clear and straightforward manner.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the adjustment process, let’s quickly review how drum brakes work. A drum brake consists of a brake drum, brake shoes, and a hydraulic system. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is forced into the brake cylinder, pushing the shoes against the inside of the drum. Over time, the brake shoes wear down, and the drum may become misaligned, causing the braking distance to increase and overall performance to degrade.

Tools You Will Need

To adjust your drum brakes, you’ll need the following tools

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - A brake adjusting tool or flathead screwdriver - A socket set - Safety glasses and gloves

1. Prepare the Vehicle Start by parking your vehicle on a flat surface and turning off the engine. Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2. Lift the Vehicle Use a jack to raise the rear or front of the vehicle, depending on which brakes you are adjusting. Secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.

3. Remove the Wheel Use the lug wrench to remove the wheel covering the drum brake assembly. Set the wheel aside.

4. Access the Drum Brake Assembly Once the wheel is off, you should see the drum. If you have to remove the drum, do so carefully. It might be necessary to tap it gently to loosen it if it’s stuck.

5. Locate the Adjuster Inside the drum, you will find the brake shoes positioned against the drum. Look for the adjuster mechanism, which typically consists of a star wheel or an adjusting lever.

6. Adjusting the Brakes Using a brake adjusting tool or a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjuster to tighten the brakes. Turn it clockwise to expand the shoes and create a tighter fit against the drum. It’s important to adjust them until there is a slight drag when you spin the drum by hand.

7. Reassemble Once the adjustment is satisfactory, reinstall the drum if it was removed and then put the wheel back on. Make sure to tighten the lug nuts securely.

8. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

9. Test the Brakes Before taking the vehicle on the road, press the brake pedal several times to seat the shoes against the drum. Test drive the vehicle in a safe area to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Adjusting drum brakes is a straightforward process that can improve your vehicle’s braking performance significantly. Regular maintenance and timely adjustments can enhance safety on the road. If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the process, consider consulting a professional mechanic. Staying proactive about your vehicle's maintenance will ensure a safer driving experience for you and others on the road.