5 Things to know about Car Drum Brakes

Car Drum Brakes - Taxscan

A car’s braking system is of utmost importance, it is one such thing that will help drivers avert road accidents. There are generally two types of braking system, drum brakes and disk brakes. Most of the modern variants are equipped with disc brakes as its quick-to-action formula does a better job at creating friction and slowing wheels. 

The brake drum and shoes portray the traditional braking system that was used in older versions. Still, some cars come with drum brakes and are economical and efficient alternatives for bigger vehicles. In this piece, you will find five things that make drum brakes unique.

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Car Drum Brakes - inside 1 - Taxscan

Lower manufacturing cost

Drum brakes are inexpensive for automobile makers. Whereas using disc brakes complicate things. Disc brakes are only used for stopping a vehicle at a higher speed so installing an additional parking brake makes the entire process expensive. Drum brake’s wide friction area makes it a safer and efficient variant. Using it will be economical for the makers as well as for the consumer. They are a safer choice for automobile makers as it offers both security and efficiency.

Is a safe alternative

Disc brakes are often considered safer because of their excellent heat capacity. However, in panic times the front disks are more at work. Most of the braking power of a vehicle comes from front brakes. Even at the time of immediate brake application, front brakes get more heat and stress than rear brakes. Drum brakes contain brake pistons that are liable for pushing the shoe onto the surface to make contact and create friction. 

Lasts longer than its counterparts

Due to reduced heat, lower stress and closed space, drum brakes are more likely to stay longer than their counterparts. In modern vehicles, it is installed as a rear brake and is durable because of its positioning.

If your car has a drum brake, make sure to check it once in a while. As it is enclosed you can’t really check it on your own, consult a professional and have it check when you rotate tires.

Drum brakes are the oldest braking system

Yes, drum brakes have been around since the advent of automobiles. They are even fitted in modified and newer versions because of their excellent braking power. This braking system includes a cylinder that applies pressure to pistons which drag the brake shoe to go closer to the drum, and slows or stops the car. 

Superior parking brake

Drums brakes make an ideal parking brake, due to the wedging activity of the shoe against the drum. The brake shoes function as the brake pad of the vehicle’s braking system.

A drum braking system includes an emergency brake that consists of a cable and lever. When the lever is pulled up, it compels the brake shoes to move back and keep the car completely idle. This is the reason why drum brakes are still used as rear brakes in modern models.

Components of a drum brake system

Brake shoes- Brake shoes are the brake pads of the drum braking system. It has the brake lining that helps in creating friction which slows down or stops the car.

Brake pistons- Brake pistons push the brake shoe onto the surface of the brake drum. This happens when the piston is filled with brake fluid.

Brake cylinder- Every wheel of a vehicle with drum brakes will have a brake cylinder. This cylindrical object contains the brake fluid which is conveyed to the pistons to push the brake drums onto the brake shoes.

Emergency brake lever- This braking system has an emergency brake lever that consists of a lever and cable. It is responsible for keeping a vehicle completely idle.

Brake cable- The brake cable is the connecting wire that binds the emergency brake lever to the brake shoe. If the cable is damaged it won’t let you park the vehicle after pulling the lever. 

Automatic adjuster- As the brake shoe gets totally worn, it automatically moves away compelling the brakes to stop functioning. Here automatic adjuster comes to the rescue. An adjuster is connected to the drums that bring the component nearer when segregation is detected.

Car Drum Brakes - inside 2 - taxscan

Advantages of Drum braking system

  • Drum brakes need to be serviced after a long time this makes it a low maintenance variant.
  • It has a longer shelf life than a disk brake
  • The manufacturing of drum brakes is comparatively cheaper and easier.

Conclusion

The brake drum is the most crucial system when it comes to road safety. It has an extended service life that makes it cost-effective in the long run. If you notice any significant drum brake wearing symptoms, visit an authorised dealer and let a professional handle it.

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