Brakes and Traction Control: Adjustments

The parking brake system is self-adjusting and does not require adjustment. On some models, rear brake drag that appears to be an over adjusted parking brake may be caused by parking brake cables not returning to a fully released position. This will result in a tight feel in the parking brake control and may allow the parking brake to be fully applied when parking brake control is at the first notch of handle travel. To correct this problem a new designed cable return spring must be installed. To install a new spring, proceed as follows:

Fig. 6 Inserting Pin In Pawl Lock-Out:

Fig. 7 Inserting Pin In Self-Adjusting Spring Lock-Out:

1. With transmission in Neutral and parking brake off, rotate rear wheels and check for brake drag.
2. Inspect cables for any damage or kinks, then release parking brake tension as follows:
a. Remove boot cover from parking brake control assembly, then place control in the released position.
b. Insert a steel pin through pawl lock-out pin hole, Fig. 6.
c. Pin must be inserted from inboard side of control (larger hole), at a slightly upward and forward angle then swept downward and rearward to disengage self-adjusting pawl and then insert through hole on the opposite side. This will lock out the self-adjusting pawl.
d. With an assistant inside vehicle, raise vehicle on a hoist.
e. While pulling down and holding front cable, have the assistant insert a pin through self-adjusting spring lock-out holes in lever and control assembly, Fig. 7.

Fig. 8 Parking Brake Cable Assembly:

3. Disconnect front and rear cables from the equalizer, Fig. 8.
4. By hand, push and pull each cable in its housing to ensure smooth operation.
5. Remove rear drums and clean rear brake assemblies, then grease shoe ledges with suitable lubricant.
6. Using a screwdriver, pry each shoe slightly off the anchor pin, then check for smooth action and full return to anchor pin.
7. Pull and release each rear cable by hand and check for full parking brake lever return.
8. Replace any parts that show signs of damage or do not operate freely.
9. Readjust rear brakes, then reassemble rear brakes and drums.

Fig. 9 Installing Front Cable Return Spring:

10. Install new front cable return spring on the equalizer, part no. E89Z-2A651-A, Fig. 9.
11. Making sure that cables are connected to the equalizer, remove two steel pins from parking brake control assembly. When removing steel pins make sure to remove pawl lock-out pin before removing self-adjusting spring lock-out pin.