how to adjust rear brake drums

Dec . 25, 2024 21:42 Back to list

how to adjust rear brake drums

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

Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safe driving. One important aspect of brake maintenance is adjusting the rear brake drums. Unlike modern disc brakes, drum brakes can require manual adjustment from time to time. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to adjust rear brake drums effectively.

Understanding the Components

Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s essential to understand the components of a drum brake system. Key parts include

- Brake Drum The cylindrical component that rotates with the wheel. - Brake Shoes Curved friction materials that press against the inside of the drum to create stopping power. - Adjuster Mechanism Typically located at the bottom of the brake assembly, it consists of a star wheel that adjusts the distance between the brake shoes and the drum. - Backing Plate The rigid structure holding the brake components in place.

Tools Required

To adjust your rear brake drums, you’ll need the following tools

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if needed) - Flathead screwdriver - C-clamp or brake tool for compressing the brake shoes - Rags or paper towels

Step-by-Step Adjustment Process

1. Prepare Your Vehicle - Park your vehicle on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure the engine is off.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts - Using the lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels without removing them completely. This will make it easier to change the tire later.

how to adjust rear brake drums

3. Lift the Vehicle - Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and securely place jack stands under the frame. Always ensure you are working safely!

4. Remove the Wheel - With the lug nuts loosened, remove them completely and take off the wheel to expose the brake drum.

5. Inspect the Brake Components - Before making any adjustments, inspect the brake shoes for wear, and check the brake drum for any scoring or damage. If the shoes or drum are excessively worn, replacement may be required.

6. Adjusting the Brake Shoes - Locate the adjuster mechanism at the bottom of the brake assembly. This is often a star-shaped wheel. - Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the adjuster. Turning it clockwise will expand the shoes, while turning it counterclockwise will retract them. It’s best to make small adjustments and check the clearance frequently.

7. Check the Drum's Spin - After adjusting, spin the brake drum by hand. The drum should spin freely but with some resistance indicative of the shoes making contact. If it spins too freely, continue adjusting until there’s a slight drag.

8. Reinstall the Wheel - Once satisfied with the adjustment, replace the wheel onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

9. Lower the Vehicle - Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and then use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. This ensures even pressure across the wheel.

10. Repeat on the Other Side - It’s important to adjust both rear brakes to maintain even braking. Repeat the above steps on the opposite side.

11. Test Drive the Vehicle - Once both sides are adjusted and the wheels are securely in place, take the vehicle for a test drive. Pay attention to how the brakes feel. They should engage smoothly without any grinding noises.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your vehicle’s brake system is essential for safety and performance. Adjusting rear brake drums can be a straightforward task if you follow the steps outlined in this guide. Remember, if you are uncertain about the condition of your brakes or how to make adjustments, it's always advisable to consult with a professional mechanic. Regular checks can save you from unforeseen issues and ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road.