Steps to Properly Adjust Brake Drums for Optimal Vehicle Performance

Nov . 01, 2024 17:00 Back to list

Steps to Properly Adjust Brake Drums for Optimal Vehicle Performance

How to Adjust Brake Drums on Cars

Adjusting brake drums is a crucial maintenance task that can enhance the performance and safety of your vehicle. Drum brakes are commonly found in older vehicles and some newer models, particularly in the rear. While many modern cars come equipped with disc brakes, understanding how to adjust drum brakes is an essential skill for any car owner or mechanic. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adjusting brake drums safely and effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials

- A jack and jack stands - A lug wrench - A brake drum adjusting tool or screwdriver - A clean cloth - Brake cleaner (optional) - Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Safety First

Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake. For added safety, place wheel chocks behind the front wheels to prevent any movement.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Using a jack, lift the rear of your vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Once elevated, remove the rear wheels using a lug wrench. This will expose the brake drum assembly.

3. Inspect the Brake System

Before making adjustments, visually inspect the brake shoes and drum for any signs of wear or damage. If the shoes or drum are significantly worn, they will need replacing before adjustments are effective.

how to adjust brake drums on cars

4. Locate the Adjuster

Inside the brake drum, you will find the brake shoes and an adjuster mechanism. This is typically a star wheel or an adjusting lever. Make sure the area is clean; if necessary, use brake cleaner to remove any dust and debris.

5. Adjust the Brake Shoes

To adjust the brake shoes, you will need to turn the adjuster. If it’s a star wheel adjuster, use a brake drum adjusting tool or a flat screwdriver to turn the wheel. Turning it in one direction will expand the shoes, while turning it in the opposite direction will retract them.

- Expand the Shoes Slowly turn the adjuster to expand the shoes until they just begin to bind with the drum. You want a slight drag which indicates the shoes are correctly adjusted. - Retract if Necessary If you hear a constant rubbing noise after adjustment, the shoes may be too tight, so turn the adjuster back slightly.

6. Rotate and Check

After adjusting, slowly rotate the drum by hand. If you can freely rotate it with slight resistance, your adjustment is successful. If it is too tight or too loose, go back and readjust accordingly.

7. Reassemble and Test

Once satisfied with the adjustment, reassemble all removed parts. Place the wheel back on, hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. Finally, test drive the vehicle at a low speed to ensure that the brakes operate smoothly.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and adjustments of brake drums are vital for vehicle safety and performance. By following this guide, you can effectively adjust your brake drums and ensure optimal braking efficiency. If at any point you feel unsure or notice significant wear, consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Safe driving depends on well-maintained brakes!