Brake Adjuster Port

[T and S]

I pulled the rear drums off of my 66' and noticed there is not an access port to turn the adjusters. However on the brake drums there looks like adjuster ports, only they have a "knockout" (similar to electrical junction box). Do you just knock one of these out to gain access to adjust the drums, or do you have to drill them out ?

[Lugnutz65]

Yes, you can drill out those "ports". I tried to knock them out but failed.
When I did my brakes I came up with a method that works very well and is fast and easy. Here's the link to the Tips and Tricks Section of my website where I describe the process.

I've also copied it below for easy reference. I hope this helps.

This idea might be easier than the method you currently use.
When it comes time to adjust the brakes, this is what worked for me. This method is very simple and eliminates the need for special tools to measure the brake drum diameter or adjust the star wheel through the hole in the backing plate. It works for drum brakes, front or rear.

First, perform the needed repair or replacement of the drum brake system, be it a rebuild or just new shoes.

After installing new brake shoes, it is always necessary to adjust the shoes to obtain the proper friction inside the drum.

This example is for the rear drums, but the front drum adjustment procedure is about the same.

Step 1. If the drum has a little friction from the brake shoes when you slide it on, that's good! So, before bolting the wheels on, try to adjust the star wheel so there is at least a little friction, but not too much. Do the same for both rear wheels.

Step 2. Mount your rear wheels.

Step 3. Chock the front wheels. Put a jack under the differential and lift the rear axle up enough so BOTH rear tires are off the ground. Have a helper REPEATEDLY press and release the brake pedal WHILE you spin the rear tire in REVERSE. You should hear and maybe even feel the star wheel adjusting the brake shoes to the correct tension. Do this on the other side. Repeat the process UNTIL YOU CAN NO LONGER TURN THE TIRE BY HAND while the brakes are on. Always check your newly installed/adjusted brakes in a safe area in case of unexpected failure.

Why does this work? Well, the star wheel is a design feature that SELF ADJUSTS the brake shoes - but it is only activated by applying the brakes while driving the truck in reverse. We all back up our vehicles several times per day, so the mechanism will keep the brakes properly adjusted as long as they are properly maintained.

[T and S]

Good info Lugnutz, thanks very much !!

[geezer#99]

If you want easier access just make an oval hole in the backing plate. Drill 2 holes, break out your round file and make an oval that a standard adjustment plug fits into.