Are you sure you re installed everything as it came out? This kinda sounds like you got them backwards and it's adjusting them too tight..... The adjusters should tighten up when you apply the brakes in reverse only

 

the adjuster lever is to the rear of the drum, as is the star, on both sides, right?

 

This is what it should look like.

If you had the adjuster on backwards then the adjusting arm wouldn't reach the star.

 

mine is defferent. im guessing it changed after '97? the adjuster arm contacts the top/side of the star wheel, not the bottom, nor is the spring in that position on the adjuster arm. both adjuster arms are toward the rear of the truck, does that sound right?

could i need a hardware kit with springs adjuster components and what not?

 

Yes, the arms are both rearward as are the adjusters. It is also recommended to replace the hardware kit. Next time, do one side at a time so you can look at the other side for reference. And yes, depending on the year, there are some variations to the setup.

 

Crap, I forgot that the 97 was different.
I think Laramie has a picture of his 97.

 

The Haynes manual does also, but if "we" don't have one or have not looked, then I guess there's nothing more to say

 

haha i have looked!! all seemed well according to the picture. so i will do the hardware kit with springs and adjusters. could bad drums or shoes cause this?

thanks anyhow sheriff

 

Out-of-round drums can, certainly. It'd probably be best to have them checked and turned or replaced as necessary before spending any time or money on other things.