Adjusting Nissan Drum Brakes A Step-by-Step Guide

Drum brakes are a vital component of many vehicles, including numerous models from Nissan. Over time, brake shoes can wear down, and the system may require adjustments to maintain optimal performance. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to adjust Nissan drum brakes, ensuring safe and efficient braking.

Why Adjust Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes operate by pressing brake shoes against the inner surface of a rotating drum to create friction and slow the vehicle down. As brake shoes wear, the distance between the shoes and the drum increases, which can lead to a decrease in braking performance. Regular adjustments can help prolong brake life, improve pedal feel, and enhance overall vehicle safety.

Tools You Will Need

Before starting your drum brake adjustment, gather the following tools - A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - A socket set - A brake adjustment tool or flathead screwdriver - A flashlight - Brake cleaner

Step-by-Step Adjustment Process

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Safety First Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. To prevent any accidental rolling, place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. 2. Remove the Wheel Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts but do not remove them completely. Then, lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 2 Inspect the Brake Components

1. Visual Inspection With the wheel off, examine the drum brake assembly for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks in the drum, excessive wear on the brake shoes, and check the condition of the springs.

2. Clean the Area Use brake cleaner to remove dust and debris from the drum and brake components. This ensures you have a clear view of the parts that need adjustment and helps prevent contaminants from affecting brake performance.

Step 3 Adjust the Brake Shoes

1. Locate the Adjustment Mechanism The adjustment mechanism can typically be found at the rear of the brake assembly. On many Nissan models, it will be a star wheel adjuster, which is used to expand or contract the brake shoes.

2. Turn the Adjuster Use a brake adjustment tool or a flathead screwdriver to turn the adjuster. If you are tightening the brakes, turn the adjuster in the direction that expands the shoes (usually clockwise). If you are loosening them, turn it counterclockwise. Rotate the adjuster until you feel slight drag on the shoe against the drum when you turn the drum by hand.

3. Check the Adjustment After adjusting both sides, spin the drum to ensure it rotates freely but has just a bit of drag. Too much drag can lead to overheating and excessive wear, while too little can result in poor braking performance.

Step 4 Reassemble

1. Reinstall the Wheel Once you have made the necessary adjustments, put the wheel back on, and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle Gently lower the vehicle off the jack stands and onto the ground. Once it is securely on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even distribution of pressure.

Step 5 Test Drive

1. Safety Check Before taking your vehicle out on the road, double-check that all tools are removed from the brake area and that you have retained all components securely.

2. Test the Brakes Conduct a test drive in a safe area, starting at a low speed. Check the braking performance and listen for any unusual noises. Ensure that the pedal feel is consistent and that the vehicle stops as expected.

Conclusion

Adjusting the drum brakes on your Nissan vehicle is a straightforward yet crucial maintenance task that promotes safety and performance. Regular inspections and adjustments can minimize wear and keep your braking system in top shape. If you encounter significant issues or unprecedented wear, consider consulting a professional mechanic. Following these steps will allow you to ensure that your Nissan’s drum brakes are functioning optimally, providing you with peace of mind on the road. Remember, a well-maintained braking system is essential for safe driving.