Pontiac Repair: Brakes, rear drum brakes, drum brakes


Question
I have a 96 Pontiac Grand Am. My rear drum brakes will lock up and sometimes grab.  The drums aren't grooved and the front rotors seems fine as well. The right rear front pad on seems thinner then the rest. I blew all the dust and rust out and imporved slightly. What would be causing the problem?

Answer
If the leading shoe is wearing faster then it must be stuck or not returning to the position it should.
Check to see that all of your springs are attached and in good shape, if in doubt buy a new hardware kit. The hardware kit should not run you more than $10 and you should change the hardware at least every few brake relinings.
Also check the adjusters and see if they are still functioning properly. The adjusters should turn easily by hand.
If all the hardware is not there and the shoes are not properly secured the brakes will not function like they should.
Try taking both rear wheels off at the same time and check to see that they are both exactly the same, also check your emergency brake for sticking.
And try some brake parts cleaner because you should not blow the brake dust around, it is very bad for you.