Don't bend the linkage rod- - - -it's much more likely that the sheet metal piece that contacts the star wheel has gotten twisted than the actuating rod getting bent. That is usually caused by a rusted adjuster screw that refuses to turn. Give that part a slight twist so it puts a little pressure on the star wheel teeth. Also look for wear at the point where the pawl meets the star wheel- - - -a rounded-off edge will not engage the wheel properly. You can file the edge sharp again- - - -the metal isn't hardened. A quick way to see if the adjuster is working is to use a big screwdriver to pry the rear shoe away from the anchor pin at the top above the wheel cylinder and see if the adjuster advances a notch on the wheel. Anytime the lining wears enough to allow a certain amount of brake shoe movement, the adjuster will advance one notch. Since the self adjuster only works in reverse, a quick way to make a final brake adjustment is to make 10-20 accelerate/full stop maneuvers in an empty parking lot, etc. with the vehicle backing up.
Jerry
