Brake issues... HELP please (1 Viewer)

[ColoradoBoy]

Couple of things to understand first.
The handbrake and the rear brakes are 1 system, not 2 separate systems like on a FF rear.
If the handbrake is ineffective, then chances are your rear brakes are not working either.
Proper adjustment of the shoes is critical for both to work.

The way I have always done it after installing new shoes or removing the drums, both on a SF and FF rear.
This assumes all internal parts are correctly assembled, lubed, and functional and the handbrake pivot mounted on the rear of the rear axle is working along with the bellcranks and adjusters..

After installing drums, adjust the star wheel until the shoes just start to grab. I tend to do this with tires on the SF as the adjuster hole is in the rear.
Using a prying device of your choice, work the bell crank for that wheel to its limit several times while trying to rotate the tire. This should force the shoes into the correct position and you will be able to rotate the wheel again. Keep tightening the star wheel adjuster and working the bellcrank.
Lather, rinse, repeat until you can no longer rotate the wheel by hand.
Do the same routine for the other side, making sure to keep working the bell cranks which will help to seat the shoes while tightening the adjuster.

Once both wheels are tight, back off the adjuster to the point where the wheels can rotate and you can detect a SLIGHT amount of rubbing. Work the bell cranks again and repeat as necessary. You want a SMALL amount of contact from the shoes to drum so the shoes just float on the drum surface while driving.

ONCE THE SHOES ARE SET UP CORRECTLY you move on to the handbrake cable length/adjusters.
The FSM states 7-8 clicks of the handbrake lever IIRC. This was always too many for me and I would adjust it for 5-6 max. Sometimes 4-5 depending on my mood. Since cables stretch over the years, you will have to play around with yours to get things the way you want on your particular truck.
The number of clicks is dependent on the 2 adjusters at the wheels along with the adjuster at the handle. You'll have to play games with both to get things right. It takes time and effort, but it does work.

Constant use of the handbrake will keep the shoes in proper position and setup as they wear down over time, assuming the adjusters are working properly.

This should be added to the FAQ for the 3FE crowd, I think. Moderators? how about it?