- Lug wrench
- Chock
- Jack
- Jack stands
Instructions:
Step 1: Raise the vehicle
- Before getting underneath the vehicle, apply the parking brake and secure the vehicle using a chock behind a front wheel.
- With the lug wrench, loosen (counter-clockwise) the lug nuts on the rear wheels. Don’t remove the nuts completely.
- Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and axle stands. Do not use cinder blocks or the vehicle’s bumper jack to hold the vehicle up.
- Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheels so you can see the brake assembly.
Step 2: Expose the brake adjustment mechanism.
- At the rear of the backing plate and at the top, you’ll see a rubber plug, which may have been painted over. Carefully prize off this plug using the tip of a screwdriver.
- You’ll see a toothed wheel or a slotted adjuster through the hole.
Step 3: Adjust the brakes
- Insert a slotted screwdriver into the adjuster or use the brake adjuster tool for the toothed wheel. Adjuster turns in opposite directions.
- Turn the adjuster with the screwdriver. The brake shoes will move closer to the drum.
- Test the tightness by spinning the wheel. You’ll feel resistance if it’s too tight. Repeat the adjustment until the wheel just begins to drag when spun by hand.
- Repeat the process for the other wheel.
Step 4: Test the brake pedal.
- Remove the jack stands and wheels and lower the vehicle. Then, replace the lug nuts and tighten using a star-shaped pattern to evenly distribute the clamping force.
- Pump the brake until the pedal feels firm and normal.
- Test the brakes by driving the car at low speeds and applying the brakes gently. The car should come to a smooth and even stop without pulling to one side.
