Drum Removal

[caddyman379]

1992 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera
V6 3.3
138,690 miles

How do i get the rear drums off? I understand theres supposed to be an adjusting screw thats star shaped, but i can't find it.. The drum wont come off by pulling on it with a lot of force. It moves ever so slightly, but then pulls back to its original position as soon as you let go. Any help would be appreciated

[GTP Dad]

In the rear of the drum on the backing plate at the bottom there should be a rubber plug. Pull the plug out and turn the adjusting screw with a screwdriver. Clockwise should work as they are left hand threads. Once you have the shoes retracted then take a hammer and use some persuasion on the drum itself. You should be able to remove the drums.

[caddyman379]

Ok, Its raining out now so i can't look at that but i will after it stops.. when i go to put the drum back on, do i need to retighten the screw or does it automatically adjust when i step on the brake?

[GTP Dad]

Tighten the shoes to the point where the drum will just slip on. If you are using a new or turned drum then the adjuster should take it from there. If you are not having the drum turned there will be a lip that you will need to get the lip over the shoes then you will need to tighten the shoes using the screw. I recommend that if you take the drum off and replace the shoes you turn the drum for best seating and braking power.