Brake Adjuster: Testing and Inspection

Place the vehicle on a hoist with a helper in the driver's seat to apply the brakes. Remove the access plug from the rear adjustment slot in each brake support plate to provide access to the adjuster star wheel. Then, to eliminate the possibility of maximum adjustment, back the star wheel off approximately 10 notches. It will be necessary to hold the adjuster lever away from the star wheel to permit this adjustment.

Apply the brake pedal. This application of force will cause the brake shoes to leave the anchor. Upon application of the brake pedal, the lever should move downward, turning the star wheel. Thus, a definite rotation of the adjuster star wheel can be observed if the automatic adjuster is working properly. If one or more adjusters do not function properly, the respective drum must be removed for adjuster servicing.