Which component locates the shoes on the backing plate?

The anchor pin is the component that securely locates the brake shoes on the backing plate in a drum braking system. Its primary function is to act as a pivot point for the shoes, allowing them to expand outward against the drum when the brakes are applied. The anchor pin provides stability and ensures that the shoes remain correctly positioned during operation, which is vital for consistent braking performance.

In contrast, the wheel cylinder operates by applying hydraulic pressure to push the brake shoes outward against the drum when the brake pedal is pressed. The adjuster maintains proper spacing between the shoes and the drum to ensure effective braking and compensate for wear. The connecting spring helps return the shoes to their resting position when the brake is released, but it does not locate the shoes on the backing plate. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the drum brake system, but the anchor pin specifically serves the purpose of locating the shoes securely in place.