Backing Off Shoe Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Fabricated Tool

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - APPROXIMATELY 15 CM (6 INCHES)

2 - THIS END TO BE INSERTED INTO BRAKE ASSEMBLY

Fabricate a pawl release tool like the one shown in illustration using a coat hanger or heavy mechanics wire. Make the length of the overall tool about 15 cm (6 inches) (1). The (2) end is the end to be inserted into the brake assembly in the following step.

Remove the plug from the rear of the support plate below the wheel cylinder.

Fig 2: Fabricated Tool Inserted Against Pawl

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - ACCESS HOLE

2 - STAR WHEEL

3 - LEVER PAWL

4 - FABRICATED TOOL

Insert the fabricated tool (4) through the access hole (1) in the support plate, under the adjuster, against the lever pawl (3). The pawl is attached to and pivots from the leading brake shoe. When inserting the tool through the access hole, directing tool somewhat forward (toward leading shoe) assures better contact with the pawl.
While pushing on the pawl with the fabricated tool (4) to disengage it from the adjuster star-wheel teeth, rotate the star-wheel (2) downward to back off the adjustment using a small screwdriver or a brake adjuster tool.
Once the adjuster screw is backed off a sufficient amount, the drum should slide off the wheel mounting studs.