Adjusting drum brakes, especially on Club Cars, can sometimes present unique challenges. Unlike disc brakes, drum brake systems require periodic adjustments to maintain optimal performance and safety. Many Club Car owners and DIY mechanics encounter a common hurdle when working on rear drum brakes: accessing the adjusters. This article delves into the specifics of rear drum brake adjustment on Club Cars, highlighting the necessity of a specialized Club Car Brake Adjustment Tool and addressing related concerns.
One of the primary issues with rear drum brake adjustment in Club Cars is the limited accessibility to the star wheel adjusters. The design often places these adjusters close to axle components, making it difficult to use a standard straight screwdriver. This restricted space makes the task of turning the star wheel—essential for expanding or retracting the brake shoes—frustrating and time-consuming. A bent or offset screwdriver, specifically designed as a club car brake adjustment tool, becomes invaluable in these situations. This tool allows for better leverage and access, simplifying the adjustment process significantly.
Understanding brake ‘drag’ is crucial for proper adjustment. When adjusting drum brakes, the goal is to expand the shoes until they lightly make contact with the drum. This point of contact is often described as “drag.” But what exactly does ‘drag’ mean in this context? It’s not about the brakes being jammed tight or offering significant resistance. Instead, ‘drag’ refers to a slight scraping sound as the shoes just begin to touch the drum when you rotate the wheel by hand. After reaching this point, the standard procedure involves backing off the adjuster star wheel typically 10-12 notches. This back-off ensures the brakes are not overly tight, preventing premature wear and heat buildup while still providing effective braking.
Parking brake issues are often linked to the rear drum brake adjustment. A common symptom is a parking brake lever that pulls out too far and feels weak. If you’re experiencing a similar problem, and have already checked cable slack, the issue might stem from improperly adjusted brake shoes. If the shoes are too far from the drum, the parking brake mechanism has to compensate for excessive travel. Therefore, before tightening parking brake cables excessively, it’s wise to ensure the drum brakes are correctly adjusted using a club car brake adjustment tool. Properly adjusted shoes reduce the travel needed for the parking brake to engage effectively.
Finally, there’s the question of an “extra” brake spring, sometimes seen in aftermarket kits. While some sources suggest these springs should be standard on all cars, they are not consistently found in manufacturer catalogs or on all vehicles. The purpose of this additional spring is often debated, but it is speculated to aid in brake shoe return or reduce brake noise. If your Club Car doesn’t have this spring, and you are not experiencing issues related to shoe return or noise, it might not be necessary. However, if you are considering adding one, consulting with a Club Car specialist or referring to specific model diagrams is recommended to ensure compatibility and necessity.
In conclusion, tackling rear drum brake adjustments on a Club Car is made considerably easier with the right tools. A dedicated club car brake adjustment tool is not just a convenience; it’s often essential for accessing and effectively adjusting the rear brakes. Understanding brake drag and its role in the adjustment process, along with addressing potential parking brake issues through proper shoe adjustment, are key to maintaining a safe and well-performing Club Car brake system.
