Drums Removed

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger, 2003 Ford Ranger, and 2002 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Rear brake shoes are automatically adjusted when vehicle is driven forward and backward and brakes are applied sharply. Manual adjustment is required if brakes do not self-adjust or after brake shoes have been removed or replaced.

Adjust with brake drums cold and parking brake correctly adjusted. Measure brake drum inside diameter using brake shoe adjustment gauge. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Measuring Brake Drum & Shoe Diameter
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Reverse adjustment gauge. Apply gauge to brake shoes on a line parallel to ground and through center of axle. Hold adjusting lever away from adjusting screw. Turn screw until outside diameter of shoes contacts gauge. See Fig 1.
Install brake drum and wheel assembly. Complete adjustment by applying brakes quickly several times while driving vehicle alternately forward and backward. Check brake operation by stopping often while driving forward.