I haven't inspected them yet but what should I look for?

 

Once you take them apart I think you will see the problem it will be pretty clear , or take some pics and post them.

 

What are your symptoms?

 

Probably just need to be adjusted. When you pull the wheel before you pull the drum, spin them and see if there is a little resistance. If there is then there adjusted fine. They should just barely rub the drum when there adjusted right. How do you now there not working properly? Is it just the way it feels? I noticed these trucks tend to dive a little when you brake hard on them. Most of the braking if from the front. You can manually adjust the drum at the back of the drum or if you drive in reverse slowly and pull and release the hand brake it'll adjust them aswell.

 

Could be the imfamous rear axle seal oil leaking on your pads - causing that symptom. You will be able to see it. Hope you don't have it!

 

If that is your only symptom, listen to the above advice and adjust them. Simple as that most of the time.

 

OK, I notice the lack of rear brakes with going down a steep driveway or when backing my boat down the ramp. My front tires slide and the rears do nothing as far as I can tell. I've had this problem for a long time and the last time I changed my front pads I adjusted the rears but it didn't help. OH, no problem with rear seals.....yet!

 

Are you lifted? might be your rear proportioning valve.

 

If your truck has ABS, I'd rule out the proportioning valve. ABS trucks don't have them. Maybe your wheels cylinders are siezed.

 

i just had to replace my rear axel seal.... and my rear brakes due to gear oil all over my brake pads... sad sad day....