Properly adjusted brake drums are essential for safe and effective braking in any vehicle. Worn or improperly adjusted brakes can lead to decreased stopping power, longer stopping distances, and even brake failure, putting you and others at risk.
Understanding Brake Drum Adjustment
Brake drums are a key component of drum brake systems, which are commonly found on older vehicles and some trucks. They are the metal cylinders that house the brake shoes, which press against the brake lining when the brakes are applied. Over time, the brake shoes wear down, and the gap between the shoes and the drum can increase. This gap can cause the brakes to feel spongy or ineffective.
Why Adjust Brake Drums?
Adjusting brake drums is crucial for maintaining optimal braking performance. Here’s why:
- Improved Stopping Power: Properly adjusted drums ensure that the brake shoes make firm contact with the drum, maximizing friction and stopping power.
- Reduced Brake Fade: Overly worn or loose brake shoes can lead to brake fade, where the brakes become less effective after prolonged use. Adjustment helps prevent this.
- Even Wear: Correct adjustment ensures that the brake shoes wear evenly, extending their lifespan and preventing premature replacement.
- Noise Reduction: Loose or misaligned drums can cause noise and vibration when braking. Adjustment can often eliminate these issues.
## How To Adjust Brake Drums
Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safety. One essential part of brake maintenance is adjusting the brake drums. This ensures your brakes engage properly and provide optimal stopping power. While it may seem intimidating, adjusting brake drums is a relatively straightforward procedure that can often be done at home with the right tools and knowledge.
This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure a successful adjustment.
Understanding Brake Drums
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s important to understand the components of a drum brake system.
Key Components
* **Brake Drum:** This cylindrical metal component is attached to the wheel hub and houses the brake shoes.
* **Brake Shoes:** These wedge-shaped pieces of friction material press against the inside of the brake drum when the brakes are applied.
* **Adjusting Star Wheel:** This star-shaped component is located inside the drum and is connected to the brake shoes. Turning the adjusting star wheel moves the shoes closer to or further from the drum.
* **Parking Brake Cable:** This cable engages the parking brake, which uses a separate set of brake shoes to hold the vehicle stationary.
Tools You’ll Need
To adjust your brake drums, you’ll need the following tools: (See Also: How To Change A Brake Switch)
* Socket wrench set
* Screwdriver
* C-clamp or brake drum adjuster tool
* Brake cleaner
* Safety glasses
* Work gloves
Step-by-Step Adjustment Process
1. **Safety First:** Before beginning any work on your vehicle, always ensure it is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the wheels are chocked. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental electrical shorts.
2. **Remove the Wheel:** Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to adjust. Once loose, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
3. **Inspect the Brake Drum:** Carefully examine the brake drum for any signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or excessive wear. If you find any damage, the drum will need to be replaced.
4. **Clean the Drum:** Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the brake drum and surrounding area. This will help ensure a proper adjustment and prevent contamination.
5. **Locate the Adjusting Star Wheel:** The adjusting star wheel is located inside the brake drum. You may need to use a screwdriver to pry open the drum’s access plate.
6. **Adjust the Star Wheel:**
* **With a C-clamp or brake drum adjuster tool:** Insert the tool into the adjusting star wheel and turn it clockwise to tighten the brakes. Turn counterclockwise to loosen the brakes.
* **With a screwdriver:** If your vehicle has a screwdriver-accessible adjusting star wheel, carefully turn it clockwise to tighten the brakes and counterclockwise to loosen them. (See Also: What Kind Of Brake Light Do I Need)
7. **Check Brake Shoe Clearance:** Once you have made some adjustments, carefully spin the brake drum by hand. You should feel a slight drag as the brake shoes contact the drum. If there is no drag, the brakes are too loose. If the drum spins very hard or binds, the brakes are too tight.
8. **Fine-Tune the Adjustment:** Continue to make small adjustments to the star wheel until you achieve the desired brake shoe clearance. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended clearance specifications.
9. **Test the Brakes:** After adjusting the brakes, take your vehicle for a test drive. Apply the brakes gradually at various speeds to ensure they are working properly. Listen for any unusual noises and feel for any vibrations or pulling.
10. **Reassemble the Wheel:** Once you are satisfied with the brake adjustment, reassemble the wheel, tighten the lug nuts securely, and lower the vehicle.
11. **Reconnect the Battery:** Reconnect the negative battery cable.
Important Tips
* Always adjust both brake drums on an axle simultaneously to ensure even braking.
* If you are unsure about any step of the process, consult a qualified mechanic.
* Never attempt to adjust brakes if you are not comfortable working on your vehicle.
* Regularly inspect your brake drums and shoes for wear and tear.
* Have your brakes serviced by a professional at least once a year or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Recap
Adjusting brake drums is a crucial part of maintaining your vehicle’s braking system. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure your brakes are working properly and provide optimal stopping power. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working on your vehicle. If you are unsure about any step of the process, consult a qualified mechanic. (See Also: What Size Hose For Brake Bleeding)
Frequently Asked Questions About Adjusting Brake Drums
How often should I adjust my brake drums?
It’s recommended to check your brake drum adjustment every 12,000 miles or so, and adjust them as needed. You should also inspect them anytime you notice any changes in your braking performance, such as pulling to one side, squeaking or grinding noises, or a spongy brake pedal.
What tools do I need to adjust brake drums?
You’ll need a few basic tools to adjust your brake drums, including a lug wrench, a brake drum adjuster tool, a socket wrench set, and a C-clamp. You may also need a pry bar and a block of wood.
What are the signs that my brake drums need adjusting?
Some common signs that your brake drums need adjusting include a grinding or squealing noise when braking, a spongy brake pedal, your car pulling to one side when braking, and excessive brake wear.
How do I know if my brake shoes are worn?
You can check the thickness of your brake shoes using a ruler or a brake shoe thickness gauge. If the shoes are less than 1/4 inch thick, they need to be replaced. You can also look for signs of wear on the shoes, such as glazing or scoring.
What happens if I don’t adjust my brake drums?
If you don’t adjust your brake drums, your brakes will become less effective over time. This can lead to longer stopping distances, an increased risk of accidents, and damage to your brake system.
