[Tom Wesenberg]

The brakes may just need a CORRECT adjustment. Many don't know how to work on mechanical brakes. You can also look at how much of the adjuster shaft is showing on the back side of the backing plates. If they are screwed in a lot, then you won't see as much shaft showing, and that would be a good sign the brakes are worn out. At any rate it wouldn't take much work to pull a front drum and inspect the front brakes.