Here's a breakdown of how to check and potentially adjust, but remember this is a simplified guide. Consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed diagrams and torque specifications:
1. Safety First:
* Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
* Chock the front wheels.
* Wear safety glasses.
2. Assessing the Situation:
* Check the brake pedal: Is the pedal soft or spongy? This points towards a more significant problem than just needing adjustment.
* Inspect the brake shoes and drums: Are the shoes worn? Are the drums scored or excessively rusty? Worn shoes and damaged drums need replacement, not just adjustment.
* Examine the self-adjusters: These are usually star-wheel mechanisms located at the rear of the brake assembly. See if they are free to rotate. If they're seized, that's your problem.
3. Manual Adjustment (If Self-Adjusters are Not Working):
* Remove the wheel: Loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheel.
* Access the brake drum: On some models, you may need to remove the emergency brake cable. On others you may be able to just get your fingers on the adjuster.
* Locate the star wheel: It's usually accessible through a hole in the backplate.
* Adjust the star wheel: Use a screwdriver to turn the star wheel. Turning it clockwise tightens the brakes, counterclockwise loosens them. Turn it very slightly, a few clicks at a time.
* Reinstall the drum: Try to spin the drum freely by hand. If it's too tight, loosen the star wheel slightly. If it spins too freely, tighten it a little more. You want some resistance, but not excessive drag.
* Reassemble everything: Replace the wheel, tighten the lug nuts, and test the brakes. Do not overtighten the lug nuts.
4. Testing the Brakes:
* Pump the brake pedal several times: This activates the self-adjusters (if they're functional).
* Test drive the vehicle: Gently apply the brakes. Check for any pulling or uneven braking. If the problem persists, you likely have a more severe issue requiring professional attention.
5. Important Considerations:
* Self-adjusters are designed to automatically adjust the brakes as you drive. If you need frequent manual adjustments, the self-adjusters are probably malfunctioning, and replacing them might be necessary.
* Worn brake shoes or drums require replacement. Adjusting worn brakes won't solve the underlying problem, and it could lead to brake failure.
* If you are uncomfortable performing this task, or if the problem persists after attempting adjustments, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrect adjustment can lead to unsafe braking performance.
* A repair manual is essential: It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications specific to your vehicle. This greatly reduces the risk of damage or injury.
This information is for guidance only. Improper brake maintenance is dangerous. If you're unsure, consult a professional.
