Hi ..

I am looking for advice please on adjusting the standard al kao drum breaks on my van.

I have always adjusted them by winding them up until they are tight & then back off a few clicks until the wheel turns freely but with the 'cttcchh' noise as you spin the wheel.

I have been told that two van service guys have independantly said that the correct way is to wind them up tight & then back off 13 clicks.

Are there any mechanics et al out there who can advise please.

Cupie,

The reference to backing off the brakes 13 clicks was removed from bith the Alko and Dexter sites quite a few years ago.
What you're doing is correct.
The following is from the Alko manual and can be read in its entirety on their website.

1. Brake Adjustment Procedure

The brakes fitted to an axle or independent rubber suspension system supplied by AL-KO International are adjusted prior to supply.
A brake clean and adjustment should be carried out between the first 300 to 1000

kilometres and then at the service intervals recommended on Page 8.

Located in the back of the brake backing plate is a small opening covered

by a protective plug. With the trailer wheels off the ground, rotation of the

star wheel, (as shown in the diagram below), will result in correct brake

adjustment. With a screw driver rotate the star wheel until the brake drag

makes it difficult to turn the wheel. The star wheel can then be turned in

the opposite direction to allow the trailer wheel to turn 3/4 to 1 revolution

freely when spun.

I like to back mine off another click or two so there is no rubbing.

Cheers, Ozjohn.

OJ ... Thanks for that  ....  I think I'll follow your method  .. G

Hi Cupie.

I have always adjusted my caravan brakes as your service mechanic has described 12 to 13 clicks and not had any problem in 55,000klm's of trvelling.

Regards Jim