Hey guys I haven't got my drums replaced in along time. Truck is not a daily driver but I feel like they could be adjusted first before I decide to get new or not. Is there a certain procedure for adjusting ? I understand there is a window on the the back side with a cog to adjust. Which one does what on it? Thanks for the help

 

Might want to download the service manual for your year truck via this link - https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...e-manuals.html - the brake adjustment procedure is documented in the manual

You can also watch this video for one method for adjusting the rear brakes -

 

Definitely buy the right tool. A straight blade screwdriver will drive you insane

 

So it's the exact same with the half ton s ?

 

Ya no kidding. I wonder if I would luck out and be able to adjust it without tearing into it like on that video. I'll have to track down that tool

 

Pretty much.. The rears in the 2500 or 3500 are just larger..

 

Didn't know that there's a specific tool for adjusting the drum brakes.
I haven't had any issues with a flat head srewdriver, as long as the adjuster turns even slightly freely.

 

Which way do you turn to tighten?

 

THAT is always the question. You'll figure it out eventually but I prefer to pull the drum and see what's happening and then note the direction. If the drum is grooved you won't be able to do this without first messing with the adjuster anyway, though

The other side may be the same or may be a mirror image.

 

If parts are in correct order, when looking through the opening on the backing plate and you see the star wheel, turn it up to tighten.
You'll see lever behind the star wheel, and if everything is in good working order and nothing is tight or binding, that lever should turn the star wheel down to automatically adjust the brakes. If you need to loosen the shoes, you'll have to tap that lever after every small turn of the star wheel, so the wheel notch gets past the lever.