Caution! If the handbrake rod length is not adjusted correctly, the automatic rear brake clearance compensator mechanism will not work. This will result in excessive free play of the brake pedal.
1. The adjustment of the length of the handbrake rod is supported by the action of automatic drum brake clearance compensators. Sometimes it is necessary to compensate for the cable stretching, but most often the adjustment is necessary after removing the brake shoes, drums, cables or handbrake lever. The adjustment is performed as follows.
2. Remove both rear brake drums as described in Section Removal, inspection and installation of rear brake drums.
3. Make sure the left and right brake caliper adjuster wheels rotate freely, then turn each wheel back 5-6 notches.
4. Have an assistant move the handbrake lever and check that the handbrake operating levers of both brakes move smoothly and easily. If not, check the cables/pads for damage and signs of wear before starting work.
5a. Release the handbrake lever completely and check that the stops on the working levers rest against the edges of the shoes. If this is not the case, adjust the length of the cable using the adjuster located on the back of the handbrake lever. To access the adjuster, disconnect and remove the exhaust system insulation, which is located at the back of the handbrake lever.
5b. Loosen the locknut (where is available).
5c. Loosen the adjusting nut until the cable has a slight amount of play (refer to the illustrations).
6. Ask an assistant to slowly move the handbrake lever and observe the movement of the operating levers on the shoes. 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 lock nut (where is available) and turn the adjusting nut.
7. After completing the adjustment, tighten the lock nut securely. Install the brake system insulation and tighten the mounting bolts/nuts securely.
8. Install the brake drums as described in Section Removal, inspection and installation of rear brake drums. Check the operation of the automatic clearance compensator mechanism by pressing the brake pedal. Ask an assistant to approach the drums and listen for clicks indicating that the mechanism is working correctly.
9. Install the wheels, then lower the vehicle to the ground and tighten the wheel bolts to the specified Specifications effort.