brakes lock up

[thz71]

Ok guys the back brakes on the new truck are always locking up and its like the rear is getting way too much power sent to um. Its a FF 14 bolt anyway i could turn um down or somthin, brakes are the thing i really don't understand.

 

[volunteerff21]

Try turning down the adjuster for the brake shoes. There's a little slot in the backing plate below where the axle goes in (there might be a rubber plug in it, just pull it out). Stick a small screwdriver in there and turn the gear looking wheel back a few turns.

 

[thz71]

ok thanks man just a normal flathead?

 

[volunteerff21]

No problem. Yup just a plain old flathead, whatever size fits in there.

I forgot one thing in my earlier post. You're gonna have to use 2 screwdrivers. One to push back the "keeper bar" (idk what it's technically called). It's the bar that fits into the groves on the gear wheel. Just push that back with one, and use the other to turn the wheel.

 

[thz71]

alright thanks man

 

[volunteerff21]

Not a problem. Hopefully that takes care of it for ya.

 

[sewlow]

Don't know if the 'big' trucks are the same as the 1/2t's, but neither of my trucks have the little window on the backing plate to adjust the brakes. Not even a knock-out provided. Have to pull the drums, adjust, replace the drums & listen for that slightly touching, scraping sound of the drums against the shoes. PITA!!!

 

[thz71]

Don't know if the 'big' trucks are the same as the 1/2t's, but neither of my trucks have the little window on the backing plate to adjust the brakes. Not even a knock-out provided. Have to pull the drums, adjust, replace the drums & listen for that slightly touching, scraping sound of the drums against the shoes. PITA!!!

my 98 had that rubber plug i just didn't know what it was

 

[sewlow]

my 98 had that rubber plug i just didn't know what it was

Lucky!!!

Why me? Lol!!!

 

[1997chevydriver]

My 97 has no provision for a knock out where it needs to be.

In other news..... Is it both sides or just one side?