GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 21177-A Drum to Brake Shoe Clearance Gauge

    Important: The rear brakes must be adjusted manually after replacing the brake shoes.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the brake drum. Refer to Brake Drum Replacement .

  3. Object Number: 750555  Size: SH
  4. Using the J 21177-A measure the inside diameter of the brake drum.

  5. Object Number: 750553  Size: SH
  6. Position the J 21177-A over the linings of the rear brake shoes.
  7. Turn the star wheel on the adjusting screw until there is approximately 0.50 mm (0.020 in) clearance between the J 21177-A and the shoe linings at their widest point.

  8. Object Number: 221  Size: SH
  9. Using a punch and hammer, remove and discard the knockout plug in the backing plate (1) which is directly behind the starwheel adjuster.
  10. Install the brake drum.
  11. Tighten the adjusting screw until light drag is present when the drum is rotated.
  12. The brake lining drag should be equal at both drums.

  13. Apply the brake pedal two times in order to center the brake shoes on the locating pins.
  14. Check the drums again for light drag. Adjust as necessary.
  15. Install an adjusting hole cover in the backing plate.
  16. Lower the vehicle.
  17. Check the park brake adjustment. Refer to Park Brake Adjustment in Park Brake.