So I replaced the rotors and pads on the front and the shoes and drums still looked good when I replaced the hardware and cylinder. The brakes still can't get anywhere near locking up 31x10.50 tires.... Would replacing the calipers help any? And I know about the rear disc swap but I don't want to get that involved yet... Is there any drum upgrade or anything or and dual Piston calipers that are a direct swap on? And I'm on a highschool budget so I would appreciate suggestions on the low price range.... Thanks in advance for all replies!

 

Have you tried flushing your fluid? If not I start there. Also did you use quality pads/rotors?

 

I used the pads and rotors recommended at the parts store... I don't really know how they compare to others though. Also, I forgot to mention when I did the rotors and pads I also added longer brake lines and completely flushed the system, and put in brand new fluid and made sure I bled them correctly.

 

Adjust the rear shoes?

 

I thought mine self adjusted when braking in reverse, is this true or do I need to adjust them? And how far do you adjust them?

 

YOU need to adjust them periodically.

Self adjusters just "don't".

 

how often do you suggest I adjust them? Also, how far should I adjust them like how will I know when to stop adjusting them? Do you have any suggestions for front brakes?

 

As for how often, let's just use "now".

Start with adjusting the rears and focus on that first.

See the diagram? Jack up both rear wheels with the trans in Neutral and the front wheels blocked. Move the adjuster per the diagram I attached until the wheel won't rotate. Back off the adjuster until you hear a sshsshsssh noise of the brake shoe on the drum as you spin it. Do the other side.

 

Alright, thanks. Tomorrow after school I'll adjust the rear brakes and get back to y'all. Thanks for all the help! I appreciate it!

 

Perfect.

 

Alright so I adjusted the drums and it was better, do you have any other free/cheap tips? Anything for the front?

 

Running bigger tires will affect braking capability. Looking up 31 inch tires would require dramatic up grades from stock. Here a good vid on adjusting rears....

 

What pads did you use?'

New rotors? Did you clean them with brake cleaner first?

Bed them in properly?

 

I don't remember the pads they were the ones the guy at the parts store recommended I used new rotors and cleaned them first and as far as I know I bedded them properly

 

http://brakeperformance.com/bedding-in-rotors.php