We just did a ton of work on my friends 82 F-150. When we were replacing the rear brakes, we noticed that on one side, the drum did not completely cover the brake shoes by about .25". The old shoes had a ridge worn in them from this. Both drums look the same and have the same markings, although I neglected to measure the width of each one. This is a 9" rear axle with 11" drums. The only thing I can think of is maybe the bearing wasn't pressed onto the shaft as far as it should be causing the axle to stick out further. The drum is sitting flush on the axle, but just not covering the shoes.

 

Did you tighten up the ratcheting adjuster on the brake shoes before you slid the drum over them? You're supposed to tighten them enough to slide the drums on, then expand them all the way out with the drum and tire on to center the shoes. Then, retract them until they stop dragging (best way to do this, I've found, is to jack it up and spin the tire by hand) and they'll self adjust as you drive.

EDIT: Just had a "dumb moment" and didn't fully pay attention. I wonder what's causing your axle shaft to stick out like that? I don't think a bearing would cause that, but I also don't really know. Is the backing plate tight?

 

I would make sure you have the proper drums and shoes first . Then inspect other backing issues . Axle spacing, backing plate , Improper axle , ect .

 

We just replaced the shoes, and the one side fit together perfectly but the other side still isn't covered. I will pull the drums again to check that they are the same width. I guess I will also measure how far the axles stick out on each side as well.

 

Good luck ! Keep us posted !

 

We pulled the drums and they are the same size, the axles however were not. The driver side axle sticks out 1/2" further than the passenger side. I guess we will be pulling it out and getting the bearing pressed on a bit further.