Because properly installed, operating, and lubricated automatic slack adjusters should never need adjusting after the initial setup, aside from brake relining, Bendix also emphasizes that an out-of-adjustment ASA should never simply be manually adjusted to correct an out-of adjustment brake stroke.
You should be asking “What do slack adjusters do?”
A Slack Adjuster is designed for use in S-Cam brakes which is mostly used in trailer and trucks, that is commercial vehicles. You can also call it an adjusting nut that is present on the back side of the brake drum and is used for brake adjustment.
How do you adjust self adjusting slack adjusters?
– Jack the vehicle up with the jack. Place it on jack stands. – Look next to a rear wheel and find the brake chamber. – Look at the back of the push rod to find the adjustment nut. – Turn the nut in the other direction so that you hear it ratcheting as you turn.
Automatic slack adjusters do a great job of keeping stroke within limits overall, but a lot are found to be out of adjustment during roadside brake inspections. Normally don’t require manual readjustment. When they go out of adjustment something else is usually happening., and more items.
However, all brake systems, whether manual or automatic slack adjusters, should receive regular maintenance checkups . When you sign the trip inspection form, you need to check the brakes to make sure they are in adjustment. This means marking and measuring the brake stroke which is part of the trip inspection.
How can you check slack adjusters?
Turn off the parking brakes so you can move the slack adjusters . Use gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster so that you can get to it. If a slack adjuster moves more than about one inch where the push rod attaches to it, it probably needs adjustment.
One source proposed facts about automatic slack adjusters: Do not manually adjust automatic slack adjusters after initial adjustment unless you are doing a complete brake overhaul. Never use an impact wrench to adjust. Grease the slack adjuster if required. When re-lining brakes, remove the slack adjuster from the S-cam. Ensure the adjustment arm is firmly fitted to the bracket.
What does a slack adjuster do on a Honda Accord?
The slack adjuster assembly transmits the braking torque to the S-cam and facilitates the adjustment of clearance between the brake lining (brake pad) and the brake drum. It is mounted on the S-cam shaft.
Where is the slack adjuster located on a Chevy Silverado?
The slack adjuster is located on the air canister on the axle housing near the wheel. On vehicles with drum brakes, it is between the pushrod and the S-cam.