Late response, I know, but busy this weekend.

If I recall correctly, adjusting the brake lever is like adding brake fluid
-- it means something else is wrong.  Don't do it.

If your brake fluid is low, either your pads are worn or you have a leak,
everybody knows that.  Closed system.  Same deal with the handbrake - either your
brake shoes are toast, or (more likely) your brake adjusters aren't
adjusting.  If you go back and adjust your brake shoes properly, the handbrake will be
fine.

The self-adjusters on brakes are notorious for getting grimy and not working.
 Clean up the threads, and make sure the star wheel isn't worn down.  Or
spring for a new one.

Bill Marshall
85 GL Tiico "Pandora's Box"
Aurora, IL