Adjuster tool for drum brakes

[84GMCSierra]

Is there a specific tool to adjust the drum brakes? I tried using a slotted screwdriver but it was too long with the wider blade, and the short one had a small blade but kept coming off the star wheel. Thanks

 

[nvrenuf]

There is a tool commonly referred to as a “brake spoon” but it’s not dramatically different than a double ended screwdriver except for the fact the ends are bent at 45 and 90 degrees.

 

[Ricko1966]

Here's a visual for you

 

[Camar068]

Don't they auto adjust?

Anyway, been a while since but after the last set I did, I used a set of dikes/side cutters to get them close to the drum (drum on/off until close) and then finished off with auto adjust.

 

[Bennyt]

Yes, technically auto adjust when you brake in reverse. However, they seem to stop adjusting after the linings wear a bit and dirty up the threads on the adjuster.

 

[PrairieDrifter]

I was going to make a post but I actually felt and heard a self adjusting rear drum adjust!!!

At first I was like oh ****, transmission. But then I was like why did that noise correlate to the feeling I felt in the brake pedal?... then it hit me, for the first time in my life I ACTUALLY felt and heard a self adjusting drum adjust itself.

I couldn't believe it. It was just a normal backing out of the driveway, nothing different. I've physically tried to get the rears to self adjust many times and I've never ever felt or heard it happen. I almost didn't believe it, thought I was hallucinating from all the oil smoke from my running valve adjustment lolol

 

[Ricko1966]

The adjustment tool is kind of a generic tool meant for most cars. Not all cars had self adjusting brakes as late as 1979 for sure in the U.S. but it's a great tool for turning the adjusters back in for taking off brake drums.

 

[Rusty Nail]

Allegedly they self adjust but like dude said and in my experience thay have to be fairly clean and well lubricated. A brake spoon is mostly handy for manipulating the adjuster  with the wheels installed.  In damn near every other instance I use a flathead and find it much handier  without the drums installed.  For some crazy reason I own two different brake spoons I think one is for imports...shaped different. Skinnier. if you are having trouble using yours it may be for the incorrect application..they got that rubber plug on the backing plate? It's for a brake spoon but the star adjuster should be greased. Just as the raised spots on the inside of the backing plate are intended to be greased. Assembling brake shoes dry will quickly terminate any hope of the brakes "automatically adjusting". Run ya a smidge or a dab of whatever you lube the front end with. Keep It off the shoes of course..They will be more than happy to sell you specific brake grease but i've never used it once not even in the ASE brakes, suspension and steering class. We run the Mystic red over here.

Hope this helps!