The parking brake, also known as the emergency brake, is an essential safety feature in any vehicle. It is designed to prevent the vehicle from rolling or moving when it is parked on an incline. Drum brakes are a type of brake system that uses a drum-shaped rotor to slow or stop the vehicle. Adjusting the parking brake on drum brakes is a crucial maintenance task that should be performed regularly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. In this article, we will discuss the importance of adjusting the parking brake on drum brakes, the steps involved in the process, and some tips and precautions to keep in mind.
Table of Contents
Why is Adjusting the Parking Brake Important?
The parking brake is an essential safety feature in any vehicle. It is designed to prevent the vehicle from rolling or moving when it is parked on an incline. This is particularly important in areas with steep hills or inclines, where a vehicle can roll or slide if the parking brake is not engaged. Adjusting the parking brake regularly is important to ensure that it is functioning properly and that the vehicle is safe to park.
Additionally, adjusting the parking brake can also help to prevent damage to the brake system. If the parking brake is not adjusted properly, it can cause the brake pads to wear down prematurely or even damage the brake rotors. This can lead to costly repairs and even compromise the safety of the vehicle.
How to Adjust the Parking Brake on Drum Brakes
Adjusting the parking brake on drum brakes is a relatively simple process that can be performed with a few basic tools. Here are the steps involved:
Step 1: Locate the Parking Brake Cable
The parking brake cable is usually located under the dashboard or on the side of the vehicle. It is a long, flexible cable that connects the parking brake lever to the brake shoes.
Step 2: Identify the Adjuster
The adjuster is usually a small lever or knob located on the parking brake cable. It is used to adjust the tension of the cable. (See Also: What Are Brake Calipers Made Of? – Unveiled)
Step 3: Loosen the Adjuster
To adjust the parking brake, start by loosening the adjuster. This will allow the cable to move freely and will make it easier to adjust the brake shoes.
Step 4: Adjust the Brake Shoes
The brake shoes are located inside the drum and are responsible for applying pressure to the brake rotor to slow or stop the vehicle. To adjust the brake shoes, you will need to loosen the retaining clips and slide the shoes out of the drum.
Step 5: Check the Clearance
Once the brake shoes are out of the drum, you will need to check the clearance between the shoes and the rotor. The clearance should be about 1/8 inch to ensure proper braking performance.
Step 6: Tighten the Adjuster
Once the clearance is checked, you can tighten the adjuster to set the brake shoes at the correct position. Make sure to tighten the adjuster slowly and evenly to avoid damaging the brake system.
Step 7: Test the Parking Brake
Once the parking brake is adjusted, you should test it to make sure it is functioning properly. To do this, park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Then, slowly release the brake and check to make sure the vehicle does not roll or move. (See Also: How Do You Double Flare a Brake Line? The Ultimate Guide)
Tips and Precautions
Adjusting the parking brake on drum brakes requires some care and attention to detail. Here are some tips and precautions to keep in mind:
- Make sure to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on adjusting the parking brake.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the adjuster to the correct specification to avoid damaging the brake system.
- Do not overtighten the adjuster, as this can cause damage to the brake system or wear down the brake pads prematurely.
- Check the parking brake regularly to ensure it is functioning properly and to prevent damage to the brake system.
- Consider having a professional mechanic adjust the parking brake if you are not comfortable with the process or if you are unsure of the correct procedure.
Conclusion
Adjusting the parking brake on drum brakes is a relatively simple process that can be performed with a few basic tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your vehicle’s parking brake is functioning properly and that your vehicle is safe to park. Remember to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and to take your time when adjusting the parking brake to avoid damaging the brake system.
FAQs
Q: Why is it important to adjust the parking brake regularly?
A: Adjusting the parking brake regularly is important to ensure that it is functioning properly and to prevent damage to the brake system. If the parking brake is not adjusted properly, it can cause the brake pads to wear down prematurely or even damage the brake rotors.
Q: How often should I adjust the parking brake?
A: The frequency of adjusting the parking brake depends on the type of vehicle and the driving conditions. It is recommended to adjust the parking brake every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
Q: What are the consequences of not adjusting the parking brake?
A: The consequences of not adjusting the parking brake can be serious. If the parking brake is not adjusted properly, it can cause the brake pads to wear down prematurely or even damage the brake rotors. This can lead to costly repairs and even compromise the safety of the vehicle. (See Also: When Is Thanksgiving Brake? The Ultimate Guide)
Q: Can I adjust the parking brake myself or should I take it to a professional mechanic?
A: You can adjust the parking brake yourself if you are comfortable with the process and have the necessary tools and knowledge. However, if you are unsure of the correct procedure or are not comfortable with the process, it is recommended to take it to a professional mechanic.
Q: What are the signs that the parking brake needs to be adjusted?
A: The signs that the parking brake needs to be adjusted include a spongy or soft brake pedal, a grinding or screeching noise when applying the brakes, and a vibration when driving. If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended to have the parking brake adjusted as soon as possible.
