Michael,
Because of the weight transfer during stopping the majority of the work is
done by the front brakes. That is part of the reason that so many vehicles
back then came out with the disk/drum combination. It is not uncommon to
find that the rear shoes are barely touching the drums when fully extended.
(One possible reason why your handbrake is not functioning properly.) Most
folks never notice the difference as the wearing of the rear shoes occurs
slowly. That is why you are directed to adjust the rears prior to working
on the handbrake. After adjusting I am sure that you will notice a
difference.
Don
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