We are going to see what causes the drum brake of a scooter to squeal. The drum brake system consists of the brake mechanisms with their control. This braking system is used to slow down or completely stop a scooter. In addition, he must effectively keep the scooter stationary. We brake the scooter by creating friction preventing the wheels from rotating. In fact, there are several kinds of braking devices: drum brakes and disc brakes. The wheel brake control is either hydraulic or pneumatic, or even mixed. Under the force of the hydraulic or pneumatic control, the brake shoe is applied against the drum and thus opposes the rotation of the wheels.
Brakes - information
Here is an article that serves as a guide and helps you choose your brake better before purchasing. For that, we give you the details on the characteristics and the different types of brakes.
Construction of a drum brake
Let's see what a drum brake really is. The brake is an essential element which ensures the safety of the scooter rider and his passenger. So, it is important to really maintain them. The drum wheel brake is composed of a fixed part, the flange, then of a pair of jaws lined with friction material, of a pressure mechanism which plays on the jaws and finally of a cylindrical drum of where the jaws will come to lock to brake. We will see in this article what to do when the drum brake of a scooter squeals, but also the care to be done with the brakes for a longer life and maximum safety.
Squeaky scooter drum brake: brake maintenance by cleaning
The drum brake of a squeaky scooter means that the braking mechanism has a problem. In reality, the braking system must ensure that the scooter is stopped safely. There should be simultaneous braking of two-wheeled vehicles and effective braking in accordance with safety requirements. The drum brake on a squeaky scooter may mean that the brakes should be cleaned. Thus, cleaning the brakes is important to maintain the good health of your scooter and to preserve safety. The braking system of a motorcycle or scooter is composed of a brake lever or pedal, the transmission cable, the brake fixed to the frame of the scooter and finally the moving part which is attached to the wheel of the scooter.
Squeaky scooter drum brake: example of a cleaning product
There is a product that will treat the braking system. This is “WD-40 Specialist Moto Brake Cleaner”. Note that this product helps improve brake performance and reduces or even eliminates squealing. Thus, you will extend the life of your brake drums and brake shoes. Cleaning involves removing the brake drum by first removing the wheel to gain access to the braking systems. Then spray the surface to be cleaned, let it evaporate for a few minutes before wiping with a soft cloth. This cleaner was designed to quickly remove dust, dirt, brake fluid, oil from the brakes and clutch system to further expand maintenance.
Squeaky scooter drum brake: wear of the brake shoes
The drum brake of a squeaky scooter maybe the sign of wear of your brake shoes. In this case, it requires changing the brake shoes when the thickness of the shoe lining has reached the critical limit of 2 to 3 mm. Note that when the brake lining begins to disappear from the steel shoe, the latter will enter into direct friction with the steel drum. Thus, two friction between two steel metals will cause squeaking. Some models of trim are fixed by rivets to its jaw. Thus, when the lining runs out, the heads of the rivets will come into direct contact with the drum and this will create warning squeaks.
In other cases, you should also check your brake fluid often, because if its level is low then the linings will be near the end of their life. Also remember to bleed the brakes of your scooter and change the brake fluid at least once a year or every 20 to 25 km. The importance of purging is the presence of air in the circuit. Adjusting the wheel brakes (the clearances between the shoes and the brake drums) will minimize the squealing of your scooter brake. Without forgetting to drain your scooter.
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Squeaky scooter drum brake: maintenance recommendations
The braking system must ensure that your scooter stops safely, that all the wheels are braking simultaneously and that the braking is effective in accordance with the regulations in force. A squeaky scooter brake is a sign that the braking system is faulty. But regular maintenance helps you to prevent and gives you an extended life of your brake without forgetting to ensure your safety. Occasionally check the condition of the friction linings, return springs, wheel brakes, master cylinder and wheel slave cylinders of the hydraulic control system. Not to mention the compressor of the pneumatic control system, the flow of which is checked using a control manometer. The main thing is to follow the parts manufacturer's advice if you will be doing it yourself otherwise it is best to go to a mechanic.
