Check the archives or otherwise look for my past posts on the proper set up
of the rear brakes. It is very important for everything to be adjusted in
order. The parking brake cables can only be adjusted with the drums off so
you can see the lever gap. Assembled correctly the self-adjusters will do
the job. Also make sure the drums are not oversized (worn out) and look for
my notes on shimming out the lower shoe rests.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Dan Barrett
Sent: Saturday, August 17, 2013 5:45 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: drum brake woes

Volks:

I've replaced my brake lines and installed new drums, shoes, cylinders, and
hardware on my rear brakes.  The hydraulic system is bled and there are no
fluid leaks.  But, the brake pedal goes almost all the way to the floor with
the engine on.  Pumping the brakes does not change the situation, so I'm
taking that as a sign that the hydraulic system is functioning as it should
and the problem lies in the rear brake adjustment.

I've tried spreading the adjuster arms until the outer center of the shoes
match the measurement given in the Bentley, but I can't get the drums over
the shoes at that width.  Cranking the adjuster down to narrow the spread
between the shoes either results in the shoes being too far away from the
drums (brake pedal goes to floor + parking brake is useless) or too close
(shoes rubbing the drums with the brakes off).

Can anyone tell me what I'm doing wrong?

Best,
d.

--
1990 GL