Adjusting Drum Brakes

[2ToneBeater]

I have a problem with my brakes. If I'm not standing on the pedal at a stop sign/light, the truck seems to over power the brakes and start going forward. I was told by a very experienced mechanic that I need to adjust the rear brakes. I can see the "adjuster" through the hole on the backing plate. My question is, which way do I have to turn the adjuster to tighten the brakes?

Thanks,
Marc

[Heavenlyfire]

each side goes the opposite way. I always get confused. The best way that I have found is to jack up the back end and turn the wheels while you try adjusting them. As soon as you get some tension, your there. GOOD LUCK.

[2ToneBeater]

do I need a special tool or just a flat head screw driver?

[flyboy2610]

A screwdriver will work, but you should get a pair of brake spoons from your local auto parts store. They only cost $3-4 each and will make the job easier.

[2ToneBeater]

So I was totally unaware that I needed to turn the star about an 8th of a turn ... I got the brakes cranked down so hard I can't get the e-brake pedal to go in at all . Is the best idea to take the hub and drum off and start over or what?

Marc

[flyboy2610]

If the brakes are cranked down that tight I doubt you will be able to get the drum off. As brakes wear they wear a groove into the drum. Your brakes are probably worn into the groove, and the drum won't come off until they are released.
There is a bar across the the star wheel which fits into the notches of the star wheel. You need to take a small screwdriver and push that bar away, and hold it, then you can back off the star wheel. Using a brake spoon for the star wheel reall helps here.

[2ToneBeater]

SWEET! Thanks so much flyboy. I'll give it a shot this weekend.

[NM5K]

Just as a note...If I'm not mistaken, the brake shoes
are supposed to go only one way. It's possible to
put the shoes on backwards. I've heard that doing so
will make the brakes seem pretty weak. If adjusting
them doesn't help, you might want to check the shoes
to see if they are on right. I think you will need to measure the length of the shoes to compare, and no,
offhand, I can't remember the correct way...I *think*
the longer shoe goes on the back, but I'm not sure.
Maybe someone knows for sure. MK