How to adjust the parking brake rear wheel brakes?
2 Answers
Inflate the tires fully. Secure the vehicle to ensure it does not move when the parking brake is released. Release the parking brake, locate the brake chamber adjustment screw, tighten it clockwise, and then loosen it half a turn counterclockwise.
Adjusting the parking brake (rear wheel brake) is quite crucial. Let me share some practical experience. First, park the vehicle on level ground and firmly engage the handbrake to prevent rolling. Locate the adjustment arm behind the brake drum, loosen the lock nut, and slowly turn the adjustment screw with a wrench. Stop when the wheel becomes completely immobile, then back off by about half to one full turn to create proper clearance between the brake shoes and drum. Immediately tighten the lock nut after adjustment – never forget this. During test driving, pay special attention to braking performance. Over-tightening causes rapid hub overheating and wear, while insufficient tightness leads to poor braking. I also regularly check brake pad thickness – replace them when worn beyond half. Safety comes first, so I recommend checking clearance monthly, especially before long trips to ensure responsive braking. After all, during emergencies on the road, the braking system is your lifeline.