Double check to see if they are over tightened
By feeling the hub & wheel, after a trip to the store.
JC...

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of A
J I
Sent: Friday, March 06, 2009 6:38 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Lack of brakes long version saga actually

Thanks to everyone,
I opened up the rears today and adjusted out the shoes until it was a tight
fit to get the drums back on. I then pumped the brakes several times and
adjusted again. After three complete adjust and pump cycles I now have a
good strong pedal. I guess I didnt need the master after all but now I have
new master and wheel cylinders so I am kind of set from the brake hardware
standpoint. I will tackle the calipers later this summer. I will probably do
all the lines and hoses also and then be done with the brakes all together.

Thanks again everyone. It is really nice to know there is a place to find
knowledgable help whenever needed. I do appreciate everyones input and all
the assistance.

Thanks again,

A J

On Fri, Mar 6, 2009 at 8:32 AM, Mike Collum <collum@myfairpoint.net> wrote:

> A J I wrote:
>
>> Is there an adjustment hole in the backing plate to adjust the rears?
>>
>
> On a Vanagon, there is an adjustment hole on each backing plate.  The hole
> is not centered behind each wheel's adjusting star, though.  Yours may not
> be readily noticeable if the rubber plugs are still in place.
>
> To move the adjusting star, you'll need a small "European" brake adjusting
> spoon or maybe a screwdriver that has been bent at the end. Standard size
> adjusting spoons are simply too large.  I use the small Euro spoon
available
> at most FLAPS.
>
> Insert the adjusting spoon into the hole with its tip facing more toward
> the front of the van (not straight in)  The tail, where your hand is, will
> face the rear somewhat.  To tighten the shoes against the drum, your hand
> will move downward as the tip of the adjuster lifts on the star.  One side
> of the van has a star that is threaded left handed and the other side has
> one that is threaded right handed.  Because of this, the adjusting motion
I
> described above is the same for both sides.
>
> Mike
>