Brake Drum: Adjustments

Drum Brake Adjustment

Tools Required
^ J21177-A Drum to Brake Shoe Clearance Gauge

The rear brakes must be adjusted manually after replacing the brake shoes.
1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the brake drum.





3. Using the J21177-A measure the inside diameter of the brake drum.

Fig. 8 Adjusting Brake Shoes To Brake Drum Inside Diameter:

4. Position the J21177-A over the linings of the rear brake shoes.
5. Turn the star wheel on the adjusting screw until there is approximately 0.50 mm (0.020 inch) clearance between the J21177-A and the shoe linings at their widest point.





6. Using a punch and hammer, remove and discard the knockout plug in the backing plate (1) which is directly behind the starwheel adjuster.
7. Install the brake drum.
8. Tighten the adjusting screw until light drag is present when the drum is rotated. The brake lining drag should be equal at both drums.
9. Apply the brake pedal two times in order to center the brake shoes on the locating pins.
10. Check the drums again for light drag. Adjust as necessary.
11. Install an adjusting hole cover in the backing plate.
12. Lower the vehicle.
13. Check the park brake adjustment.