91 Tbird braking problems

[biggflintmi]

About a week ago the brake pedal lost stiffness. it will go halfway to the floor before starting to stop. I thought i had a leak somewhere so i bought some fluid and topped it off. I don't see it leaking anywhere and there isn't any noticeable spots in the driveway from it leaking. The other day i go to stop and the tire locks up on me and it didn't want to stop so i parked it(reservoir was full after it locked up). I just took the tire off and the adjustment screw was laying in the drum. I cant afford to throw money at it so my question is how do i tell what i need? The pads don't look too bad but i plan to replace them anyway while the tires off. I fear the problem is worse than just replacing the brakes and springs. any input is greatly appreciated.

91 Thunderbird, 3.8L

[inafogg]

Originally Posted by biggflintmi

About a week ago the brake pedal lost stiffness. it will go halfway to the floor before starting to stop. I thought i had a leak somewhere so i bought some fluid and topped it off. I don't see it leaking anywhere and there isn't any noticeable spots in the driveway from it leaking. The other day i go to stop and the tire locks up on me and it didn't want to stop so i parked it(reservoir was full after it locked up). I just took the tire off and the adjustment screw was laying in the drum. I cant afford to throw money at it so my question is how do i tell what i need? The pads don't look too bad but i plan to replace them anyway while the tires off. I fear the problem is worse than just replacing the brakes and springs. any input is greatly appreciated.

91 Thunderbird, 3.8L

i would start by replacing brake hardware(hold down return springs)to start.have the brake drum checked for being out of specs.drum may have been cut too much causing self adjuster to screw out to far.hardware kit is fairly cheap,replace shoes if damaged make sure drum is with in specs.