To adjust the parking brake on a 1997 Pontiac Grand Am, you'll need to:
1. Engage the parking brake.
2. Locate the rear brake drums. These are located behind the rear wheels.
3. Remove the rear wheels. You'll need a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts.
4. Inspect the brake shoes and drums. Check for wear, damage, or excessive rust. This is a good time to check the condition of your brake shoes and drums in general. If they're worn, they need replacing. If there's significant rust, cleaning is recommended, but it can be tricky.
5. Access the parking brake adjuster. This is usually a star-shaped wheel or a similar mechanism on the back of the brake assembly, behind the drum. *This is the crucial step and is vehicle-specific, and the location may vary slightly.* You might need a special tool (like a small socket or star wrench) to turn it. A shop manual specific to your 1997 Pontiac Grand Am will show you exactly where it is and what it looks like.
6. Adjust the adjuster. Turn the adjuster clockwise (usually) to tighten the brake shoes. Do this in small increments, engaging and releasing the parking brake after each adjustment to check the effectiveness. You'll want enough tension to hold the car on a moderate incline, but not so much that it's difficult to release the parking brake.
7. Reassemble. Replace the rear wheels and lug nuts, tightening them to the manufacturer's specifications.
8. Test the parking brake. Ensure it holds the car securely on a hill, but releases easily.
Important Considerations:
* Shop Manual: Highly recommended! A shop manual for your specific year and model will give you detailed diagrams and instructions. This is the best way to avoid damaging your brakes.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working on your brakes, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper adjustment can lead to brake problems, and brake issues are extremely dangerous.
* Brake Shoes and Drums: If the brake shoes are worn, they must be replaced. Severely corroded or damaged drums may also require replacement. Don't just rely on adjusting the adjuster.
* Rear Drum Brake Adjustment: This is a more involved job than adjusting cable-type parking brakes, and some specialized tools may be required.
This process is a general overview. The specific location and type of adjuster will vary slightly depending on the exact model and configuration of your 1997 Pontiac Grand Am. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle before attempting this repair.
