If you notice the parking brake slipping more often than usual or making an unusual noise, chances are it has been disconnected, which is fairly typical given how often this item is used. While this may seem like an innocuous issue, it should not be ignored, as it can eventually stop working as intended and cause the vehicle to move from where it was originally parked if left unchecked. In this article, you will learn how to adjust the emergency brake on a Chevrolet Silverado.
The parking brake is the type of brake that is usually controlled by the driver’s hand and permanently immobilizes the rear wheels of the vehicle.
When the truck is parked, this function is critical, as it prevents the vehicle from moving. In some cases, it is also used as a starting aid on sloping roads, but with today’s technology, this method is no longer necessary most of the time. In addition, it can be used as an emergency brake if the pedal does not work properly.
How does work Parking Brake?
The parking brake lever, located to the right of the driver, in the center of the vehicle, is the most visible component of the parking brake. It is also the most accessible part of the parking brake.
If you want to use it, you have to lift it, which causes the traction bar – which is attached to the derivative by adjusting nuts – together with the flaps – which are attached to the rear wheels – to generate sufficient pressure on the brake plates to keep them immobilized. If you do not want to use it, you can leave it in the off position.
It should be noted that the mechanical parking brake works in this way. Nowadays, many cars are equipped with an electronic parking brake, in which case, instead of using a lever, you have to press a button identified with the letter “P”.
How To Adjust Emergency Brake
If the hand brake is not working properly and you have doubts about how to tighten it, it is best to take it to a workshop where they will be able to fix it in a short time. Although adjusting the hand brake is not complicated, and you can do it yourself if you follow the steps below:
Step 1 – Raise the Truck
Use a spanner to loosen the rear nuts. Now find a suitable place in front of the rear wheel to position and use your hydraulic jack.
Continue to loosen the nuts and remove the rim.
Step 2 – Remove Brake Assembly
Now you will want to access the handbrake adjustment mechanism, for this you need to remove the disc brake caliper from the rotor.
Use a suitable ratchet wrench (usually a 12 mm one). Unscrew the upper bolts (3) and you can slide the caliper off the rotor. Finally, slide the rotor to see the handbrake mechanism.
Step 3 – Adjust Parking Brake
Now that you can see the handbrake mechanism, look at the brake assembly, you will notice that the turn dial is connected to a pin that pushes the handbrake shoes, brings the shoe closer to the rotor, and tightens the braking tension.
Adjust the dial until the shoe is higher than its current setting. Turn the resistance a couple of times, mount the rotor, and observe how much friction there is now between the pads and the rotor. If you do not feel that there is enough friction, disassemble the rotor and turn the dial further. This will be based more on trial and error.
Step 4 – Wrap Up
Well, now that you’ve found the right setting for your handbrake, reassemble everything and enjoy your handbrake.
FAQs
Where is the parking brake on a Chevy Silverado?
The parking brakes on a Chevy Silverado are located on the front wheels only.
Will adjust the parking brake stops the car from rolling?
Yes, sir, if your brake pads have not rotted from normal wear. If the brake pads are rotted, they should be removed immediately.
If they are not repaired, the brakes could fail, which could lead to an accident. Make an appointment with the auto mechanic as soon as possible.
Why is my parking brake stuck?
There are many explanations for this. Cold weather can cause vehicle brakes to freeze. Rust and corrosion are potential causes. It can also be the result of holding the parking brake for an extended period. You may have over-applied the parking brake. This can also be one of the reasons.
Your vehicle’s brakes get stuck for a variety of reasons. And the question of how to release the emergency brake while stuck occurs. In this situation, contact your auto mechanic.
Final Thoughts – Parking Brake Adjustment
It is not difficult or time-consuming to adjust the parking brake on your Chevy Silverado, and it does not require a great deal of knowledge or expertise. Your initiative is acceptable if you are proficient in the subject matter. However, if you are not experienced in auto maintenance, we recommend that you avoid experimenting and instead seek the services of competent technicians who are familiar with how to set the parking brake.
The reason we are telling you this is not to frighten you, but rather because the parking brake, as a component of the vehicle’s braking system, really performs a very essential function in ensuring the safety not just of you, but of all other road users as well.
