Chrysler - DIYCarExpert

Adjusting drum brakes on a classic Chrysler involves several critical steps. Begin by acquiring tools like a brake adjustment gauge for measuring gaps (0.010 to 0.015 inches) and a brake spoon for adjusting shoe tension. Ensure the car is securely lifted on jack stands on a flat surface, supported by a jack capable of handling the vehicle's weight. After stabilizing the vehicle, remove the wheels using wrenches and inspect the drum for wear. Use the brake spoon to fine-tune the adjuster wheel until shoes slightly drag against the drum. Finally, conduct a low-speed test drive to confirm smooth stopping. Additional details elucidate the entire process.Gather Necessary ToolsTo get started with adjusting the drum brakes on a classic Chrysler, you'll need a few tools. First, grab a brake adjustment gauge. This tool helps you measure the space between the brake drum and shoe. You want this gap to be between 0.010 and 0.015 inches, so the shoes fit right.Next, you'll need a brake spoon. It's a tool that lets you tweak the star wheel adjuster through the slot in the backing plate. This helps you change the tension of the brake shoes.Make sure you have a jack and jack stands too. These help lift and hold the car so you can work on the brakes safely.You'll also need some wrenches, usually between 10mm and 14mm, to take off the wheel and drum assembly. A torque wrench is handy to make sure all nuts are tightened just right. For Chrysler, this is usually between 75 and 85 foot-pounds.Having the right tools makes the job easier and keeps the brakes working well.Prepare Your VehicleGet your car ready for adjusting the brakes. Start by parking on a flat surface to keep the car from moving. Put on the parking brake and place blocks behind the rear wheels to make sure the car stays still.Gather safety gear like gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself. A flashlight can help if the area is dark.Before you lift the car, make sure you have a good jack and jack stands that can handle your car's weight.Follow these steps:Place the Jack: Put the jack under the spots recommended in your car's manual.Lift the Car: Raise the car until the wheels are off the ground. Check that it is steady.Use Jack Stands: Slide the jack stands under the car at the right spots and lower the car onto them gently for support.These steps help you get to the drum brakes easily for adjustments.Access the Drum BrakesWhen your car is safely lifted, you need to reach the drum brakes for adjustments. Make sure the car is stable on a jack stand to keep it from moving. Use a lug wrench to take off the wheel, loosening the nuts in a crisscross way. This helps prevent bending the wheel or drum.Once the wheel is off, you will see the drum brake assembly. The drum might be stuck and need some work to remove. Older Chryslers can have drums that stick because of rust or dirt. Tap the drum gently with a rubber mallet to loosen it. If it still won't budge, look for any screws holding it to the hub. These screws are usually Phillips head and can be removed with a screwdriver.Handle the drum carefully to avoid harming any parts inside. Check the inside of the drum for any wear or scratches. This can show if there are problems that might need a professional. Knowing the drum's condition helps you make better adjustments later.Keeping the drum in good shape is key for how well the brakes work, especially in older cars where finding parts might be hard.Adjust the Brake ShoesFor the best performance of your classic Chrysler's brakes, adjust the brake shoes with care. Here's how:Loosen the Adjuster Wheel: Use a brake spoon or a flathead screwdriver to turn the star wheel adjuster at the bottom of the brake assembly. This step helps pull back the brake shoes, giving you room to adjust them accurately.Align the Brake Shoes: Turn the adjuster wheel in the other direction until the brake shoes just touch the drum. Spin the drum by hand. You should feel a slight drag, which means the shoes are aligned correctly.Fine-tune the Adjustment: If there's too much drag, turn the adjuster wheel back a little. This step prevents the brakes from overheating and helps them work smoothly.These steps help keep your brakes working well and lasting longer.Properly positioned brake shoes make a big difference in how your car stops and the brakes' overall performance.Test Brake PerformanceMake sure your Chrysler's drum brakes work well by testing them. Start with a simple check. Press the brake pedal while the car is parked. The pedal should feel solid, not soft. This means the brake shoes are touching the drum properly.Next, take a short drive at a slow speed in a safe area like an empty parking lot. Go up to 10-15 mph and gently apply the brakes. The car should slow down evenly and not veer to one side. Listen for odd sounds like squeaks, which could mean the brakes need adjusting or parts are worn out.To check further, test the brakes at a faster speed, about 30-40 mph. The car should stop straight. Consistent stopping distances show the brakes are working well.Think about using a brake tester. This tool measures how fast the car slows down and gives you exact numbers on how well the brakes work.Regular checks keep your Chrysler safe to drive.People Also AskHow Often Should I Inspect the Drum Brakes on a Classic Chrysler?Check the drum brakes on your classic Chrysler every 6,000 miles or once a year, whichever happens first. This helps keep your car safe and running well by finding any problems early before they become big issues.Can I Adjust Drum Brakes Without Removing the Wheels?Yes, you can adjust drum brakes without taking off the wheels. There's a special slot on the brake's back plate you can use. But, to make sure everything is working well and safe, it's a good idea to take the wheels off and check.What Are the Signs That My Drum Brakes Need Adjustment?If your drum brakes need adjusting, you might notice the brake pedal feels soft or low, the car doesn't stop evenly, it takes longer to stop, or you hear a scraping noise. Regular checks help keep brakes working well and last longer.Is Professional Assistance Recommended for Drum Brake Adjustment on Classic Cars?It's a good idea to get a professional to help adjust drum brakes on classic cars. They know how to do it safely because they have special skills and tools to handle old brake systems. This way, the car stops safely.Are There Specific Safety Precautions for Working on Classic Car Brakes?When working on old car brakes, stay safe by making sure the car is lifted and held up right. Wear safety gear, don't breathe in brake dust, and check the car's manual for brake tips. Always follow these steps for safety.