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Re: How do I remove the rear brake drum?
When it comes time to adjust the brakes, this is what worked for me. I didn't have or need one of the measuring tools to measure the inside diameter of the drum. This method is very simple.
Step 1. If the drum has a little friction from the brake shoes when you slide it on, that's good! Try to adjust the star wheel so there is at least a little friction, but not too much. Do the same for both rear wheels.
Step 2. Mount your tires
Step 3. Chock the front wheels. Put a jack under the differential and lift the rear axle up enough so BOTH rear tires are off the ground. Have a helper REPEATEDLY press and release the brake pedal WHILE you spin the rear tire in REVERSE. You should hear and maybe even feel the star wheel adjusting the brake shoes to the correct tension. Do this on the other side. Repeat the process UNTIL YOU CAN NO LONGER TURN THE TIRE BY HAND while the brakes are on. Always check your newly installed/adjusted brakes in a safe area in case of unexpected failure.
Why does this work? Well, the star wheel is a design feature that SELF ADJUSTS the brake shoes - but it is only activated by applying the brakes while driving the truck in reverse. We all back up our vehicles several times per day, so the mechanism will keep the brakes properly adjusted as long as they are properly maintained.
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