How to Adjust the Rear Drum Brakes With the Tires On

Unlike disc brakes, which are self-adjusting by their design, the drum brakes commonly utilized on the rear wheels of many vehicles do require an initial adjustment whenever new linings are installed and may require routine readjustments in cases where the self-adjusters aren't working properly. Adjustment of drum brakes is a relatively simple task that most home mechanics can easily learn to perform without even having to take the rear wheels off the vehicle. Drum brake adjustment with the rear wheels in place will, in fact, allow you to adjust them very accurately.

Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Hydraulic floor jack, or other safe jack
2 Jack stands
Wood blocks, or equivalent, to chock the front wheels
Flashlight or drop cord work light
Small straight screwdriver
Brake cleaner
Penetrating oil, with wand
Drum brake adjustment tool (also known as a "spoon")

Step 1
Place wood blocks, or the equivalent under the front tires, to serve as wheel chocks. Jack the rear of the vehicle high enough to obtain a comfortable work space beneath it. Adjust the two jack stands and place one on either side, under the axle housings for rear-wheel drive vehicles, or under the subframe for front-wheel drive. Rock the vehicle slightly to insure that it is solidly supported on the stands.
Step 2
Locate the brake adjustment access opening on the rear of the backing plate. This is normally located at the bottom of the plate. Remove the rubber plug, if there is one present, using a small straight screwdriver.
Step 3
Inspect the self-adjuster through the access opening, using a flashlight or work light. Spray it with brake cleaner. Insert a plastic wand into the spray head of a can of penetrating oil. Carefully spray the exposed adjuster threads, taking care not to get oil on the brake linings. Allow it to penetrate for a few minutes.
Step 4
Insert a brake spoon into the access opening far enough to engage the teeth on the adjuster wheel. If the adjuster is working properly, it will only turn in one direction and you will hear a clicking sound as you turn the adjuster wheel.
Step 5
Place one hand on the tire and slowly rotate it as you tighten the adjuster. Keep this up until you feel resistance on the rear wheel. When you feel a moderate resistance, stop. Repeat this procedure on the other wheel. Try to get the resistance on both wheels as equal as you can.
Step 6
Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. Press the brake pedal. It should feel firm and solid. Start the vehicle, put it in reverse and slowly back up and stop a few times. This will even out the rear adjusters.