Attention! If the length of the handbrake linkage is not adjusted correctly, the automatic rear brake gap compensator mechanism will not work. This will result in excessive free play on the brake pedal.
1. Adjustment of the length of the handbrake rod is supported by the action of automatic drum brake gap compensators. Sometimes it is necessary to compensate for cable stretch, but most often adjustment is necessary after removing the brake shoes, drums, cables or handbrake lever. Adjustment is carried out as follows.
2. Remove both rear brake drums as described in Section Removal, inspection and installation of rear brake drums.
3. Check that the left and right brake lever adjuster wheels turn freely, then turn each wheel back 5-6 teeth.
4. Have an assistant move the handbrake lever and check that the working handbrake levers of both brakes move smoothly and smoothly. If not, check cables/pads for damage and signs of wear before starting work.
5a. Fully release the handbrake lever and make sure that the stops on the working levers rest against the edges of the shoes. If not, adjust the cable length using the adjuster located on the back of the handbrake lever. To gain access to the regulator, disconnect and remove the thermal insulation of the exhaust system, which is located at the rear of the handbrake lever.
5b. Loosen locknut (where available).
5c. Loosen the adjusting nut until the cable has a little free play (refer to illustrations).
6. Ask an assistant to slowly move the hand brake lever and observe the movement of the working levers on the blocks. The levers should begin to move when the handbrake lever is between the first and second notches of the ratchet, i.e. when the handbrake is on the first notch, the stops should still be in contact with the shoes. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the locknut (where available) and turn the adjusting nut.
7. After adjustment is complete, securely tighten the locknut. Install the brake system thermal insulation and securely tighten the fastening bolts/nuts.
8. Install the brake drums as described in Section Removal, inspection and installation of rear brake drums. Check the operation of the automatic gap compensator mechanism by depressing the brake pedal. Ask an assistant to approach the drums and listen for clicks that indicate the correct operation of the mechanism.
9. Install the wheels, then lower the vehicle to the ground and tighten the wheel bolts to Specifications effort.