Drum Brake System: Adjustments

NOTE: The rear brakes are self-adjusting and require a manual adjustment only after brake shoes have been replaced or when the adjuster has malfunctioned and has been repaired or replaced.








DRUMS REMOVED
1 Measure the inside diameter of the drum braking surface.
2. Reverse the tool as shown and adjust the brake shoes until they touch the gauge. The gauge must be parallel to the vehicle with the center line through the center of the axle.
3. Hold the automatic adjusting lever out, while rotating the adjusting screw.
4. After adjustment, apply the brakes several times while driving the vehicle alternately forward and reverse.
5. When the rear brake shoes have been properly adjusted, road test to check brake operation.

WARNING: Only road test the vehicle when the brakes will apply and the vehicle can be safely stopped.





DRUMS INSTALLED
1. Place the transmission in neutral. Raise the vehicle and support it with safety stands.
2. Remove the cover from the adjusting hole at bottom of backing plate, and turn the adjusting screw inside the hole to expand the brake shoes until they lock the drum.
3. When shoes are against the drum, loosen the adjusting screw an additional 10 to 12 notches so the drum rotates freely. If the drum does not rotate freely, remove the wheel and drum and check brake shoe installation.
4. Install the adjusting hole cover on the backing plate.
5. Check and adjust other rear brake assembly.
6. After adjustment, apply the brakes several times while driving the vehicle alternately forward and reverse.
7. When the rear brake shoes have been properly adjusted, road test to check brake operation.

WARNING: Only road test the vehicle when the brakes will apply and the vehicle can be safely stopped.