The proper way to adjust drum brakes is by adjusting the star wheel located inside the brake drum. To adjust drum brakes, follow a few simple steps.
Drum brakes are an essential component of your vehicle’s braking system. Understanding how to adjust them properly can help keep you safe on the road while also prolonging their lifespan. Adjusting drum brakes can seem like a daunting task, but it can be done with a few simple steps.
The first step is to remove the brake drum, being careful not to damage any brake components. Once the drum is removed, locate and adjust the star wheel by turning it with a brake spoon. With each adjustment, spin the wheel to check for any rubbing or dragging. Once the brakes are properly adjusted, re-install the drum and test the brakes to ensure they are functioning correctly. Following these steps will help ensure your drum brakes are functioning safely and effectively.
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Understanding Drum Brakes
Drum brakes are a type of braking system that uses brake shoes to press against the inside of a drum-shaped component. The drum brake system is different from other types of brakes in a few ways, including:
- The brake shoes make contact with the inside of the drum rather than a rotor or disc
- Drum brakes are usually found on older vehicles or on the rear wheels of new ones
- They are not as effective at dissipating heat as disc brakes
The components of drum brakes include the drum, brake shoes, wheel cylinder, adjuster, and return springs. They all work together to ensure smooth and safe braking.
Components Of Drum Brakes
- Drum: The round component that rotates with the wheel, which is lined with material for the brake shoes to press against.
- Brake shoes: U-shaped metal pieces lined with friction material, which press against the inside of the drum to slow down the vehicle.
- Wheel cylinder: A hydraulic cylinder that pushes the brake shoes into contact with the drum when the brake pedal is pressed.
- Adjuster: A mechanism that keeps the brake shoes at the correct distance from the drum as they wear down.
- Return springs: Springs that pull the brake shoes away from the drum once the brake pedal is released.
Working Of Drum Brakes
When you step on the brake pedal, the wheel cylinder forces the brake shoes against the inside of the drum, creating friction that slows and stops the rotation of the wheel. The adjuster keeps the shoes at the correct distance from the drum, ensuring efficient braking even as the shoes wear down.
The return springs then pull the shoes back when the brake pedal is released.
Overall, drum brakes still serve their purpose well for rear braking systems but are not as efficient as disc brakes. Understanding how the drum brake system works is an essential aspect of keeping your vehicle safe and well-maintained.
Signs That Your Drum Brakes Need Adjusting
Signs That Your Drum Brakes Need Adjusting:
As a car owner, it’s crucial to keep your vehicle’s braking system in excellent condition to avoid any accidents or mishaps. Drum brakes need regular adjusting to function correctly. Here are some of the signs you should look out for that indicate when your drum brakes need adjusting:
- The brake pedal feels spongy or too hard: If your brake pedal becomes soft or hard to press, it’s a clear sign that your drum brakes need adjusting.
- Squealing or grinding noises: If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound or a grinding noise when applying the brakes, your shoes are worn down and need adjusting.
- Uneven braking: If your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, it’s a sign that your brakes have become misaligned and need adjusting.
- Poor braking performance: You may notice reduced braking effectiveness when your brakes need adjusting.
Why Drum Brakes Become Misaligned And The Importance Of Timely Adjustment:
Drum brakes can become misaligned due to regular wear and tear, which can have a significant impact on braking performance. If the brakes’ lining becomes thin, the drum brake’s shape changes, making it challenging to apply the brakes effectively.
Timely adjustment of drum brakes is vital because misaligned brakes can cause uneven wear on the brake shoes and drums, leading to decreased braking performance and potentially causing accidents. Regular adjustment can ensure that your drum brakes are working effectively and reliably.
Having your drum brakes adjusted as soon as you notice any of the signs mentioned above can save you a lot of money in the long run and, more importantly, ensure your safety on the road.
How To Adjust Drum Brakes Correctly
Proper Adjustment Of Drum Brakes: A Step-By-Step Guide
Drum brakes are an indispensable part of the vehicle’s safety system. Adjusting the drum brakes is crucial to ensure that the brakes work correctly and avoid potential accidents. In this section, we will provide a step-by-step guide for adjusting drum brakes correctly.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced technician, these instructions will help you adjust your brake system effectively.
How To Remove The Drum Brakes
- Loosen the lug nuts, then lift the car and remove the tire from the wheel.
- Remove the dust cap or main center cap from the wheel hub and spindle.
- Remove any retaining clip securing the adjuster mechanism and remove the adjuster lever.
- With pliers, remove the cotter pin and washer from the spindle and remove the spindle nut.
- Pull the drum brake off of the center spindle and hub.
How To Clean And Inspect The Components
- Inspect the brake components (drums, shoes, springs, etc.) For wear, damage, or cracks.
- Clean all the components with brake cleaner spray or soapy water.
- Inspect and clean the adjuster mechanism and adjuster lever.
- Check if the brake components are properly lubricated with a recommended lubricant.
How To Adjust The Shoes
- Verify that the parking brake is not engaged, and the vehicle is on a level surface.
- Turn the adjuster mechanism in a counterclockwise direction with a brake adjustment tool until the brake drum is secured in place.
- Loosen the brake adjuster screw by pushing the brake adjustment tool down and turning it clockwise until the drum is tight against the brake shoes.
- After adjustment, rotate the drum gently to make sure it moves freely and there is adequate clearance with no friction.
- Repeat the above steps on the opposite brake drum.
Best Practices And Safety Tips To Remember
When adjusting drum brakes, always remember these best practices to avoid any potential risk and ensure optimal brake performance:
- Always wear protective gear, including safety glasses and gloves, to prevent brake dust and debris from entering your eyes and skin.
- Only use recommended brake parts, tools, and lubricants, as per your vehicle’s manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Avoid over-tightening or under-tightening the brake adjustment screws, as this can adversely affect the brake’s performance and lead to brake failure.
- Make sure to properly clean and inspect all brake components, including the adjuster mechanism, springs, and drums.
- Avoid damaging the brake components while installing or removing them.
Adjusting drum brakes is a crucial process that cannot be ignored. By following this step-by-step guide and best practices, you can effectively adjust your drum brakes to ensure your vehicle’s safety. Remember, brake maintenance is an essential part of vehicle ownership and proper maintenance can save your life!
Frequently Asked Questions For What Is The Proper Way To Adjust Drum Brakes
How Do You Know If Drum Brakes Need Adjustment?
You need to check for symptoms like a soft pedal, pulling to one side, or grinding sounds.
How Often Should You Adjust Drum Brakes?
It’s recommended to adjust drum brakes every 10,000 miles or at least once a year.
What Tools Do You Need To Adjust Drum Brakes?
You’ll need a jack, lug wrench, brake spoon or flathead screwdriver, and a brake adjusting tool.
Can You Adjust Drum Brakes Yourself?
Yes, you can adjust drum brakes yourself but it’s important to follow the proper steps and safety precautions.
Conclusion
Properly adjusting drum brakes is essential to maintaining optimal braking performance and ensuring safe driving. By following the basic steps to adjusting drum brakes, taking your time and paying attention to the details, anyone can accomplish this task. It is important to work with a methodical approach and always be mindful of safety.
Remember to check all components of the drum brake system for wear and tear, and be sure to replace any parts that need it. By performing regular maintenance and adjustments, you will not only prolong the life of your drum brakes but also protect yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road.
Following industry-recommended practices is the key to ensuring a longer lifespan of your vehicle and ensuring that you avoid any potential hazards on the road. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you are unsure of how to adjust your drum brakes yourself.