Parking Brake Adjustment

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Nov 29, 2010 | 11:58 AM

Nightintruder

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Joined: Aug 2010

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From: Hampton Virginia

Parking Brake Adjustment

I have a Ford F-250 and it failed inspection due to rear parking brake would not hold is there a way to adjust the rear brake shoes to correct this problem and which direction would thr adjuster turn. I'm hoping I don't have to replace the rear brake shoes. This would be a bear to do!!!!!!!!

Nov 29, 2010 | 01:37 PM

Pinzer

Mountain Pass

Joined: Apr 2009

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Does it have rear drums or discs?

Both setups should have an access slot on the back of the backing plate. Using a screwdriver or adjusting tool (available at any auto parts store), the star wheel can be adjusted to provide the proper clearances. Sorry, I can't remember which way to turn them. May have to use trial and error.

Nov 29, 2010 | 03:11 PM

Four Down

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I am not yet familiar with the Ford truck parking brake adjustment but all moden cars, vans and trucks I have driven have an adjustment in the parking brake cable that is independent of the hydraulic brake system. The cable adjustment on other vehicles is to compensate for the rear brake wear.

Does your F250 have a hydraulic control for the parking brake?

Nov 29, 2010 | 04:14 PM

Zmann

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From: AZ

PINZER gave the correct answer

Nov 29, 2010 | 06:36 PM

Wolfboro

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From: FL

In addition to what Pinzer already said .

1- Star wheel adjuster should be turned upwards (as you facing the access slot ) to bring the brake shoes closer to the drum ( at least that is what I do for my trailer brakes ) .

2- If you have limited slip rear axle , you will have to jack up both rear wheels ( chocks on the front axle , both ways) . Remove access slot cover and rotate star wheel upwards as you turn the wheel . Once you feel the drag , back off 1 or 2 notches with the star adjuster ( opposite direction -downwards).

Good luck and hope you pass the inspection next time.
Ken

Nov 29, 2010 | 06:54 PM

Zmann

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From: AZ

actually one turns up and the other down to tighten the brakes from what I remember just doing
but it will be apparent

Nov 29, 2010 | 07:16 PM

Nightintruder

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From: Hampton Virginia

Parking Brake Adjustment

Thank Everyone for all your information and input, I finally figured it out and found the adjusters were jammed and would not work so I had to take the friggin thing out and put it in a vise to get it freed up then I put anti-seize on the threads and make sure it would turn freely and then put the adjusters back in and made adjustments. It is a shame the person who had this truck before me just didn't give a damn how he took care of it. Such a waste Anyway it's my responsibility now.