automotive brake adjuster Interview Questions and Answers

1. What is the primary function of a brake adjuster?

   • Answer: The primary function of a brake adjuster is to maintain the correct clearance between the brake shoes or pads and the drum or rotor, ensuring effective braking performance. This compensates for wear on the friction material.

2. Explain the difference between manual and automatic brake adjusters.

   • Answer: Manual adjusters require periodic adjustment by a mechanic or the driver (e.g., star wheel adjusters). Automatic adjusters automatically compensate for brake wear, requiring less maintenance.

3. Describe the components of a typical drum brake adjuster.

   • Answer: A typical drum brake adjuster might include a star wheel, adjusting screw, return spring, connecting levers, and linkage to the brake shoe.

4. How does a self-adjusting brake system work?

   • Answer: Self-adjusting systems use the brake pedal force during braking to slightly adjust the brake shoes or pads. This is usually done through a ratchet mechanism that moves the adjuster only when a certain brake force threshold is exceeded.

5. What are the signs of a faulty brake adjuster?

   • Answer: Signs include a soft or spongy brake pedal, increased stopping distance, uneven brake pad wear, a grinding noise during braking, or a noticeable pulling to one side during braking.

6. How do you inspect a brake adjuster for wear?

   • Answer: Inspect for damage to the adjuster mechanism (e.g., broken parts, excessive corrosion), check for smooth operation (no binding or sticking), and measure the clearance between the brake shoes/pads and the drum/rotor.

7. What safety precautions should be taken when working on brake adjusters?

   • Answer: Always use safety glasses, gloves, and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental activation of the braking system. Support the vehicle securely and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

8. Explain the difference between leading and trailing shoe brakes.

   • Answer: Leading shoes are the brake shoes that move in the same direction as the rotation of the drum, providing more braking force. Trailing shoes move in the opposite direction.

9. What tools are typically used to adjust drum brakes?

   • Answer: Common tools include a wrench for the adjuster, a socket set, possibly a brake adjuster tool specific to the vehicle, a C-clamp (for some adjustments), and possibly a dial indicator to check brake drum runout.

10. What is the importance of proper brake adjuster clearance?

    • Answer: Proper clearance ensures even brake pad wear, prevents dragging brakes, reduces heat build-up, and optimizes braking performance. Improper clearance can lead to premature wear, reduced stopping power, and brake failure.

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