'55 Front Drum Adjustment... need assistance

[bhead1968]

What is the special tool needed to adjust the brake pads from outside the drum? I know its the star nut, but what can i use if i don't have this special tool? I can always just take off the tire/drum and adjust that way but I wanted to know about the above.

thanks much..

[1937-44]

Hi,

Her are two examples of brake adjusters. They really aren't very expensive and do make the job easier. In a pinch we used to just use an old screwdriver.

Carl

[old-tank]

This tool or similar

Also should be available locally.

[bhead1968]

Gents, thanks for quick response. Now, if i go by the Buick Shop Manual it talks of turning the screw either clockwise or counter to expand and contract the shoes...but looking at it up close (the back of the drum) and the tools you showed me, it seems i just slip that in the notch (star nut) and crank up and down..correct? If so, then is up expanding or contracting and vise-versa for down?

i can just use a flat head at this point..just want to make sure i'm doing it correctly..thanks

[1937-44]

Once you have engaged the star wheel with the flat head, raising the handle up toward the center of the wheel should expand the shoes. Carl

[Bhigdog]

Gents, thanks for quick response. Now, if i go by the Buick Shop Manual it talks of turning the screw either clockwise or counter to expand and contract the shoes...but looking at it up close (the back of the drum) and the tools you showed me, it seems i just slip that in the notch (star nut) and crank up and down..correct? If so, then is up expanding or contracting and vise-versa for down?

i can just use a flat head at this point..just want to make sure i'm doing it correctly..thanks

You can't screw anything up. If one way doesn't have the desired effect do the opposite. It's not brain surgery. Just do it...............Bob

[bhead1968]

great.. just making sure... and thanks again everyone!.. I'll definitely have more questions as i dive into this car.