Which component holds brake shoes away from the drum until brakes are applied?

The component that holds the brake shoes away from the drum until brakes are applied is the return spring. When the brake pedal is released, the return spring plays a crucial role in retracting the brake shoes away from contact with the drum. This ensures that the brake shoes do not drag against the drum when the brakes are not in use, which would lead to unnecessary wear and reduced efficiency. The return spring provides the necessary force to reposition the brake shoes back to their resting state, thus allowing the vehicle to move freely without interference from the braking system.

Understanding the function of the return spring is essential in maintaining proper brake operation and ensuring that the braking system responds correctly when needed.