How to Adjust Brake Drums A Step-by-Step Guide

Brake drums are essential components of a vehicle's braking system, commonly found in older cars and some current models. They work in conjunction with brake shoes to provide the stopping power required for safe driving. Over time, brake drums may require adjustment to maintain optimal performance, ensuring that your vehicle stops effectively and safely. This article will guide you through the process of adjusting brake drums, providing a comprehensive overview of the procedure.

Understanding Brake Drums

Before diving into the adjustment process, it's essential to understand what brake drums are and how they function. Brake drums are large, cylindrical components that house the brake shoes. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the shoes against the inner surface of the drum, creating friction that slows down or stops the vehicle.

Just like any mechanical component, brake drums can wear out or become misaligned over time. This can lead to uneven braking, decreased performance, and excessive wear on the brake shoes. Regular adjustment can mitigate these issues.

Tools You Will Need

To adjust your brake drums, you will need

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - A brake adjustment tool or screwdriver - A measuring tool (like a caliper) - Brake cleaner - Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Brake Drums

Step 1 Safety First

Before starting any automotive work, safety is paramount. Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself during the process.

Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be adjusting the brake drum. Once loosened, use the jack to lift the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the brake drum.

Step 3 Inspect the Brake Components

Once the wheel is off, inspect the brake drum and shoes for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, deep grooves, or excessive wear on the shoes. If any components appear significantly worn, consider replacing them before proceeding with the adjustment.

Step 4 Locate the Adjuster

Brake drums typically contain a star wheel adjuster, located at the bottom of the brake assembly. This adjuster controls the spacing between the brake shoes and the drum. You may need to remove a rubber plug or cover to access it.

Step 5 Adjusting the Brake Shoes

Using a brake adjustment tool or a flat-head screwdriver, turn the star wheel adjuster. If you turn it clockwise, it will expand the shoes, bringing them closer to the drum. If you turn the wheel counterclockwise, it will retract the shoes, increasing the gap between the shoes and the drum.

To find the right adjustment, rotate the drum (if necessary) and listen for any scraping noise. You want to achieve a snug fit without grinding. A general rule of thumb is to adjust the shoes until they just barely touch the drum when the drum is rotated, indicating a proper fit.

Step 6 Reassemble the Brake Components

Once you are satisfied with the adjustment, replace any covers or rubber plugs you removed. Next, reattach the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground before fully tightening the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even tension.

Step 7 Test Your Brakes

After reassembling everything, start your vehicle and gently test your brakes at low speeds. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how the vehicle responds when braking. If all seems well, your brake drums are adequately adjusted.

Conclusion

Adjusting brake drums is an essential maintenance task that can greatly improve your vehicle's safety and performance. Regular inspections and adjustments can prolong the life of your brake components and provide peace of mind while driving. However, if you're unsure about any part of the process or notice severe wear, it's wise to consult a professional mechanic. Remember, your safety and the safety of others on the road should always be your top priority.