Nissan Drum Brake Adjustment A Comprehensive Guide

Drum brakes are a vital component of many vehicles, including numerous models produced by Nissan. Proper maintenance and adjustment of these brakes are essential for optimal performance, safety, and longevity. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to Nissan drum brake adjustment, ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly and safely.

Understanding Drum Brakes

Before diving into the adjustment process, it is crucial to understand how drum brakes function. Typically found in the rear wheels of many vehicles, drum brakes consist of a brake drum, brake shoes, and a wheel cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes against the inside surface of the drum, creating friction that slows down or stops the vehicle. Over time, the brake shoes can wear down, and the adjustment can become necessary to maintain effective braking performance.

Why Adjust Drum Brakes?

There are several reasons why adjusting drum brakes is important. As the brake shoes wear, there is an increased distance between them and the brake drum. This gap can result in reduced braking efficiency, leading to a longer stopping distance or even brake failure. Additionally, improper adjustment can cause uneven wear of the brake shoes, leading to premature failure and costly replacements. Regular adjustments help ensure that the brake shoes are optimally positioned for effective engagement with the drum.

Tools Needed for Adjustment

Before starting the adjustment process, gather the necessary tools

1. Jack and Jack Stands To lift the vehicle safely. 2. Lug Wrench To remove the wheel. 3. Brake Adjustment Tool An appropriate tool for adjusting the brake shoes, such as a drum brake spoon or a flathead screwdriver. 4. Cleaning Supplies Brake cleaner and a wire brush to clean the drum and shoes. 5. Safety Gear Gloves and goggles for protection.

1. Preparation Park the vehicle on a level surface and ensure it is in gear (or in 'Park' for automatic transmissions). Engage the parking brake for added safety.

2. Remove the Wheel Use the lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts. Once the nuts are off, safely jack up the vehicle and place it on jack stands. Remove the tire to access the brake drum.

3. Inspect the Drum and Shoes Check the condition of the brake drum and shoes for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Clean them using brake cleaner and a wire brush to remove dust and debris.

4. Locate the Adjuster Drum brakes typically have an adjuster mechanism located at the bottom. You may need to remove a rubber plug from the backing plate to access it.

5. Adjusting the Brake Shoes Using the brake adjustment tool, turn the adjuster to spread the shoes outward until they barely contact the drum. Rotate the drum by hand to ensure it spins freely. You want the shoes to be as close to the drum as possible without dragging.

6. Reassemble the Brake Assembly Once the shoes are adjusted, reattach any components, including the rubber plug. Be sure everything is secure and correctly in place.

7. Reinstall the Wheel Place the wheel back on the hub, secure it with the lug nuts, and lower the vehicle. Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.

8. Test the Brakes After adjusting the brakes on both sides, press the brake pedal a few times to seat the shoes against the drum. Test your brakes at low speed in a safe area to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and adjustments of your Nissan's drum brakes are essential for safe and efficient driving. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your brake system remains in optimal condition, providing you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle will stop when you need it to. If you encounter any difficulties or feel unsure about the process, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Remember, safety first!