Adjusting Handbrake on 1997 Explorer XL?

[Scotsman01]

I followed my manual for the adjusting the brake but it refers to a threaded rod and an adjustment nut, neither if which I can find anywhere along the brake cable.

There appears to be only cables fed through brackets and I cannot work out how to tighten the cables. My description is probably not helping but I only have a cheap mobile phone with no flash so pictures are not great.

My only guess is that they may be adjusted within the rear brake drums themselves, but I Think I would have to open the brake drums to do this.

Could someone please give me some ideas how to adjust them, at present I am a danger on any hill.

Thanks

 

[koda2000]

as you have rear drums, there should be a small oval rubber plug on the bottom of the brake backing plate. remove this plug and look inside. you will see a start-wheel adjuster. using a brake spoon (or a screw driver) turn the star-wheel upward until for start to feel/hear a little drag on the drum.

if I were you i'd remove the drums and inspect/clean/replace/lube the springs and other components to make sure they're not broken or frozen with rust. you're not so much adjusting the parking brake as you are adjusting the rear brake shoes. this should not be necessary as they are supposed to be equipped with self-adjusters. the adjuster is a cable and small arm that presses against the star-wheel and turns it a small amount when excessive wear is detected.

 

[drdoom]

I have a 97 but the brake has a foot pedal, and the only adjustment I know of is at the shoes, a typical star wheel, accessed through the normal slot in the backing plate. Adjusting won't help if the actuator lever arms are seized, which is often the case. 1Aauto has a good YouTube video, demonstrating a good shade tree method of getting everything freed up and functional. But to reiterate my brake may be different.

 

[Flash]

I have a 97 but the brake has a foot pedal,

Australian delivery has a lever between the seats in the console.

 

[Flash]

I'm heading down your way some time in the coming week, I'll try to drop in.
I got that interior light too.

 

[Scotsman01]

Adjusting hand brake

Thanks everyone'

I guess the safest way is to look at the shoes and adjusters and give a general clean

For flash, never received an email answer so ended getting from the states'
for a good price.

Finally got it road registered after 12 months' but still more to do, your help has got me there

Thanks All