GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The park brake must be adjusted any time the park brake cables have been replaced or disconnected, or if park brake holding ability is inadequate.

Before adjusting the park brake, check the condition of the service brakes. Refer to Drum Brake Hardware Inspection in Drum Brakes. The service brakes must be adjusted properly before proceeding with the park brake adjustment.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Rotate the rear wheels and note the amount of base brake adjustment drag.
  3. Tighten the adjuster nut on the equalizer, periodically turning the rear wheels by hand, until the drag on the rear brake shoes begins to increase.
  4. Lower the vehicle.
  5. Fully apply and release the park brake lever to the floor three times.
  6. Raise the vehicle.
  7. Repeat step 3.
  8. Loosen the adjuster nut on the equalizer two revolutions. The brake drag should be the same as it was in step 2.
  9. Lower the vehicle.