TM 10-3930-671-24 Service Brake Adjustment Figure 4. Service Brake Installation NOTE • Engine should not be running. • Remove key for safety. • Be sure transmission directional control    is    in    NEUTRAL    and    truck prevented  from  moving  when  parking brake is released. 1. The  service  brakes  on  the  TA18  transaxle  may be   adjusted   from   the   inner   side   through   the backing plate (all models), or from the outer side through access openings in the wheel hub/brake drum (later models). 2. Brake   clearance   is   measured   between   brake shoe and drum, with brakes fully released. Brake Clearance: .010-.012 in.  (0.255-0.304 mm) 3. Release parking brake. IMPORTANT - Do not overtighten brakes.  It is very difficult  to  release  the  ratchet  wheel  pawl  and  back off adjustment of the brake. 1. Adjustment thru Backing Plate 1. Remove the 4 dust plugs in brake backing plate. 2. Use   a   feeler   (thickness)   gauge   to   check   the clearance between each shoe and drum.  Use a screw   driver   or   equivalent   tool   to   rotate   the adjustor ratchet wheel in the brake. Some  brake  linings  are  still  made  with  asbestos  which when inhaled has been found to be extemely dangerous. Do not use compressed air to clean the brake shoes  or other  parts  before  or  after  disassembly.    Instead  wipe down the assembly and then the components with damp, disposable  wipers  and  immediately  discard  them  safely. Avoid breathing any dust or injury may result. 3. Use  a  screwdriver  to  push  on  and  release  the ratchet  pawl  when  it  is  necessary  to  vback  off adjustment (increase clearance) of the brake. 4. Carefully adjust clearance between brake shoes and   drum   to   .010-.012   in.      (0.255-0.304   mm) measured at dust plug openings at outer sides of backing plate. 5. Replace  the  dust  plugs  in  brake  backing  plate when adjustment is completed F-377