How to Reinstall a Drum Adjuster

Taking the time to inspect and adjust the drum brakes in your car can save you money and the trouble of having your car in the shop for repairs. Following these instructions, you'll be able to correct excessive wear long before it turns into major damage to more than one part of the braking system.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Secure your vehicle on a set of jack stands using a floor jack. For front tires, the best place to put the jack stands is underneath the control arms. For the rear tires, put the jack stands under the spindle.

2. Remove the wheel by first breaking loose and removing the lug nuts, then lifting the wheel off the hub and setting it aside. Make sure to place the lug nuts in an area where they will not be lost or damaged. A clean magnetic tray is always a safe bet.

3. Locate the star wheel and adjuster boot. This is where the drum adjuster will seat. First, put the open end over the boot by lifting the adjuster level and slipping it on. Let the drum adjuster sit back over the top of the drum.

4. Use a pair of wire cutters to grip the end of the shoe and pull it upward. This requires quite a bit of muscle to overcome the spring pressure, which is why the wire cutters are handy. Push the receiver cup end of the drum adjuster into position against the shoe and let the end of the shoe go. It should grip the drum adjuster in place.

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