The Role of Mounting Kits in Ensuring Performance and Longevity

In our previous article, we explored the fundamentals of drum brake design and operation. Today, we shift focus to an equally critical aspect—servicing these mechanisms and ensuring the correct replacement of brake pads. A key component of efficient drum brake function lies in the proper alignment and uniform positioning of the brake shoes against the drum. This is crucial, as misalignment, particularly during dynamic braking, can lead to significant wear and reduced performance.

A closer look at the drum brake mechanism reveals several vital components that help maintain optimal pad alignment. These include coupling springs, guide pins, and automatic mechanisms for adjusting pad position over time. Together, they play a pivotal role in reducing wear and ensuring reliable braking performance.

Coupling Springs: Essential for Pad Alignment

Coupling springs are designed to draw the brake pads together, counteracting the brake cylinder’s force that pushes them apart when pressure is applied. These springs work to return the pads to their original position once the pedal is released, ensuring that the pads do not remain in constant contact with the drum. If the pads remain pressed against the drum, premature wear of both the drum surface and the friction lining is inevitable. Additionally, continuous pad contact can lead to overheating, transmitting excessive heat to the wheel and hub, which negatively impacts the lifespan of associated components.

In the event that a coupling spring fails—such as through breakage—there is a risk that the pads could become stuck, leading to uneven braking or potential damage. This underscores the importance of checking the performance of these springs during maintenance.

The Importance of Regular Inspection

When servicing drum brakes, it’s essential to inspect the return springs for wear or stretching, and to ensure the mechanisms are free from debris and wear products. Drum brakes, with their enclosed design, are particularly susceptible to contamination, which can compromise performance. Ideally, coupling springs should be replaced alongside the brake pads to guarantee optimal performance.

While not all pads come supplied with new springs, specialised mounting kits can address this issue. For example, Febest Auto Parts offers a wide range of kits that cover the most popular vehicles on the market, from early Korean crossovers such as the first-generation Hyundai Tucson to modern budget sedans like the Hyundai Accent, VW Polo Sedan, and Skoda Rapid.

Guide Pins: Ensuring Proper Pad Movement

Another critical element in drum brake assemblies is the guide pins, often referred to as "soldiers." These pins secure the brake shoes to the brake backplate while allowing them to move freely within a certain range. This ensures that the brake pads respond appropriately to the brake cylinder and handbrake mechanisms. To prevent the pads from “hanging” or vibrating, special locking springs are used to secure them in place, reducing the risk of squeaking during braking.

When inspecting these pins and springs, look out for any signs of damage, such as bent or broken pins, or faulty locking springs. If these components fail to secure the brake shoes properly, it can lead to premature wear, vibrations, and undesirable noise. In some cases, locking springs may be installed directly onto the pads themselves.

Automatic Wear Compensation Mechanisms

As brake pads wear down over time, the friction lining becomes thinner, which can lead to increased pedal travel. In hydraulic brake systems, this is partly compensated by the extension of the hydraulic pistons. However, in drum brakes, the high force of the return springs can prevent the pistons from extending adequately, which can result in delayed braking response.

To combat this, drum brake mechanisms are equipped with automatic wear compensation systems. These systems ensure that, as the pad wears, the return springs' influence is gradually reduced, preventing excessive pedal travel and maintaining consistent brake performance. There are several types of compensation mechanisms, including manual adjustments, RTC-based limiting mechanisms, and the most modern external ratchet mechanism.

The ratchet mechanism is designed to push the brake pads apart as the friction lining wears down. However, over time, wear and corrosion can impair the function of the ratchet, preventing it from engaging properly. Symptoms of a faulty ratchet mechanism include slow brake response and increased pedal free play. Thankfully, these mechanisms are included in Febest Auto Parts drum brake mounting kits, offering a simple and cost-effective solution for timely repairs.

Complete Maintenance Solutions with Febest Kits

Febest Auto Parts drum brake mounting kits are designed to provide all the necessary components for maintaining or repairing drum brakes. These kits eliminate the need to source individual parts, ensuring that workshops and distributors can carry out repairs efficiently and with confidence. Whether replacing worn pads, fixing squeaks, or addressing pedal issues, these kits offer a comprehensive solution to the most common drum brake problems.

With a wide range of kits available, covering nearly all makes and models in the Australian Market, Febest Auto Parts offers the convenience of easily accessible parts for all drum brake servicing needs. For more information, visit the Febest Auto Parts catalogue to find the ideal kit for your vehicle.

By utilising high-quality mounting kits, workshops and distributors can ensure the continued safety and reliability of drum brakes, reducing the risk of premature wear and maintaining the optimal performance of braking systems.

Contact details:

Phone: +61 3 93575761

General enquiries: sales(@)febest.com.au

Wholesale enquiries: trade(@)febest.com.au

Website: febest.com.au

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The content presented here is not intended to serve as professional mechanical advice or guidance. Any information, explanations, or descriptions regarding automotive topics are not to be construed as a substitute for consulting a qualified and certified mechanic or automotive expert.

Readers are strongly advised to seek the assistance of a licensed and experienced mechanic before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided in this LinkedIn article. Attempting to perform maintenance, repairs, or modifications on a vehicle without proper knowledge and expertise can lead to serious safety risks, personal injury, or damage to the vehicle.

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In matters of vehicle maintenance and repair, always rely on the expertise of qualified professionals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to assess and address your specific vehicle needs.