Squeaky drum brake

[toro1978]

Guys, what could be the reason for a drum brake to squeak when it is raining? Could it be that it needs fat? If so what do I need? It is a Sachs front hub, I would say it lacks in performance too, regardless of the weather.
Any thoughts? I don't know much about drum brakes, apart from opening up a SA front hub to see what's inside.

 

[wheelbender6]

Shimano roller brakes require occasional fluid added, I don't think the Sachs drums require any type of fluid.

 

[RustySprockets]

Contamination maybe? Hit up the parts with alcohol or BraKleen™.

 

[arty dave]

Yep, hit em with brake cleaner. Also sometimes the surface of the shoes can become 'glazed' (it will look a bit shiny) - you can lightly sand this off and this should give better braking power. You only need to take off a tiny bit. Plus the better leverage of a bigger brake lever can help - I usually use those honking big levers from 80's mountain bikes - but anything that pulls a decent amount of cable will help.

 

[amecks]

I have Sturmey drums that squeek on hard braking. I plan on looking inside for glazing but also to check that the leading edge is chamfered. Chamfered edge is important on motorcycle drum brakes.