Regular drum brake service is essential to keep your heavy-duty truck's brake system functioning properly, reduce the risk of brake failure, and keep everyone on the road safe. Read on to find out how they work, common brake services and how to spot when yours is failing.
What is a Drum Brake?
Drum brakes are a braking system that uses a round drum brake and brake shoes to slow down or stop a heavy-duty truck when the driver presses the brake pedal.
How Drum Brakes Work
- Compressed air is released after the driver presses down on the brake pedal
- This air enters the brake chamber and presses on a diaphragm, which then fills up the back end and moves the pushrod.
- The pushrod moves out of the brake chamber and pivots the slack adjusters.
- As the slack adjuster pivots, the S-cam (brake cam) does the same.
- When the S-cam turns, the brake shoes are pushed apart.
- The brake shoes, which are covered with a brake lining, come into contact with the brake drum.
- Return springs bring the brake shoes back into their original position once the S-cam retracts.
Drum Brake Repair Services
Here are two regular drum brake services that should be on every heavy-duty truck driver's and fleet manager's radar:
Slack Adjuster Service
Slack adjusters take up the slack as your brake shoe lining wears down, and with prolonged use, the slack adjuster can malfunction or need to be calibrated, resulting in increased stopping distance and reduced brake performance.
Regular slack adjuster service ensures that the brake shoes are always in the correct position, resulting in better braking performance and increased safety.
Brake Shoe Maintenance
Over time, general brake shoe wear and tear can result in reduced stopping power and an increased risk of brake failure.
Brake shoe maintenance is required every 30,000–35,000 miles in urban use with stop-start driving, but some may last up to 80,000 miles in less demanding terrain, such as highways.
Remember that there is no noise indicator for brake shoe issues, so it is worth having a look yourself or visiting us at Blue Ridge Truck Service at 726 Cedar Lane, Cana, VA 24317, to have us do it for you.
What Are the Signs of Drum Brake Malfunction?
In addition to regular maintenance, it's important to be aware of the signs of a drum brake malfunction. Here are five common indicators that it's time to get your drum brakes serviced:
- Your vehicle requires more pressure on the pedal or takes longer to come to a stop
- You notice a burning smell or smoke coming from your wheels
- Your truck pulls to one side when braking
- Your brake pedal feels spongy when you apply pressure to it
- You hear grinding noises when applying your brakes
What Causes Drum Brake Failure?
There are several potential causes of your drum brake issue, including:
- Rough use of brakes (brake fade)
- Overheating
- A seized brake
- A faulty slack adjuster
- A warped brake drum
- Corrosion
- Improper maintenance
- Poor quality parts
Although not ideal, our devoted and knowledgeable mechanics at Blue Ridge Truck Service at 726 Cedar Lane, Cana, VA 24317, can quickly and easily fix these problems.
We Offer Financing!
0% Interest Available Right Now!
- Pay NO INTEREST on your Find Truck Service credit card purchase of $199 or more for the first 6 months.
- Pay NO INTEREST on your Find Truck Service credit card purchase of $750 or more for the first 12 months.
- All services and repairs are covered with your new card. Apply for your Find Truck Service credit card at our location, simple 5 minute application with an instant decision!
What Our Customers Are Saying
Get in Touch To Schedule a Service
Need roadside assistance, have questions, or want to schedule your truck or trailer in for an in-shop or mobile repair or service? Contact us, we're available 24/7.
