How do you replace slack adjusters?

Answer 1

They are the adjusters on the rear drum brakes. There is usually a oval shaped hole on the rear of the backing plate where you can use a special adjuster screw or a large screwdriver to turn the adjustment star. You want to adjust them for a fair amount of drag without the wheel and tire mounted on it. 'After adjusting that way and after you remount the tires, , back the car up , in a straight line a few times to set them automatically and to the correct tension.

Answer 2

Many newer class 8 trucks have automatic slack adjusters. Adjusting them is not recommended. To adjust them, which is recommended to ensure proper operation of the internal ratcheting device, with the air brakes released (red button pushed in) tighten the slack till the brake shoes are tight against the drum, and back them off 1/4 to 1/2 turn. When you first go to back them off, there will be a bit of slack in the adjustment screw, do not include this in your measurement. After adjusting the slack, it is recommended you check the STROKE of the brake chamber to ensure it is properly adjusted. To perform this check, set the brakes (pull red knob out) measure the distance from the face of the brake chamber and the center of the clevis, and record this measurement. Then set the brakes, and measure again. Subtract the second measurement from the first, and that is your stroke. (you can measure from the face to any point on the rod, as long as both measurements are done from the same location) the stroke guidelines change according to the size of brake chamber.

Answer 3

They're just held on with two clevis pins, but if you need a slack adjuster you probably need a brake job too so I'd have the truck towed to a shop and have a mechanic do the whole axle.