UK Car Repair: 1976 MG Midget Rear Brake Adjuster, oil residue, scouring pad

Question
Hi Christian: My 1976 MG Midget was in need of brakes. I bought the car off someone who sort of misled me. Anyway the rear brake adjusters are seized.I put shoes etc on one side, put the drum on and the shoes are just touching. However the adjusters are seized. Is there anything short of replacing the backing plate that I can try to free them up. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
Doug

Answer
You mean the auto-adjust?

Heat them with gas, -


Once the oil residue is smoking (if there isn't any dab some on!) hold it with pliers and tap with a SMALL hammer on a steel surface (edge of vice), just gently shock/tap them until they will move, once they're kind-of free drop them into a pot of oil.

Once this freeing procedure is done take the adjuster completely apart and carefully clean the threads with a scouring pad (the kind you use for washing up)- get every thread of the nut and bolt completely clean, wash them in detergent then dab with grease and reassemble.

Should be ok for at least 12 months, maybe indefinitely.

Though I must advise they are "supposed" to be replaced once seized.