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Hi

Apologies if there's a thread for this but I couldn't find one.

I'm looking for help on removing the rear brake adjusters on my 81 model. I've would the old ones in as far as possible but the square adjuster goes into the backplate after a while as you would expect. It's then necessary to try to turn it using the front which is a pointed dome that cannot be gripped. Pliers just slip off it and there's not room to get molegrips on even if they would work! I've got new cylinders, shoes etc to put on and whilst I could leave the current adjusters on it seems a waste not to utilise my new ones !

Any help or advice would be gratefully received, thanks in anticipation

I normally use an open ended spanner under the strap once down flush

As you're swapping them out, you could cut a screwdriver slot in the pointy end

Put a bit of heat on it and plenty of WD40. If that doesnt work, then its a new pair of backplates.....

Thanks for the prompt advice, I've now got a couple of options. I had thought of the slot for screwdriver trick so I'm definitely on the right lines ! Back to it tomorrow

Much appreciation for all replies.

GraemeC wrote: ↑Thu Jun 11, 2020 5:46 pm As you're swapping them out, you could cut a screwdriver slot in the pointy end

The early ones were like that from the factory, or at least the ones we got here.

I would wind it all the way back first and give it a good douse of WD40 or oil.

If it is troublesome, you could cut the strap away. I personally don’t think it does much and would allow you to smother the exposed threads of the new adjuster in grease to make sure it doesn’t corrode.

If you are unable to turn the adjusters in any further towards the brake shoe side of the backing plate, then cutting a slot to be able to use a screwdriver would be the easiest option.

This is a good mod to protect the adjuster threads. Punched 3/8" holes in some plastic caps and fitted them in between the backplate and strap.
Keeps all the dirt away from the threads.

Plastic caps to protect the threads, eh. Very clever.

Brilliant and simple idea Bob

I think there should be a whole section of the forum dedicated to Bob’s brilliant ideas, tips and inventions...