Stuck star wheel adjuster on drum breaks?

I just learned how to change drum breaks (yeah me!) and I noticed that while the star wheel adjuster on the passenger side moves freely, the driver's side is stuck. The rubber plug that I'm guessing was supposed to keep the elements out, was missing which led to it's corrosion. How important is it for that thing to be adjusted properly? I mean, can I make it to the auto store and back or should I take the other car? Sorry if this is a silly question... ('03 Ford Taurus sedan)Stuck star wheel adjuster on drum breaks?
do not put any old grease on it!!! first try to make the adjuster move if it wont then replace BOTH! parts houses usaully have repair kits or have them seperately. they make a special lubricant for drum brakes use it sparingly on the threads and replace the rubber plug also, youre right, its used to keep the elements out.its almost easier to replace the whole spring kit on both sides for peace of mind and save the shoes for even wear. hope this helpsStuck star wheel adjuster on drum breaks?
You can drive it, it will not hurt anthing, the shoes will not adjust out to the drum. But they will contact the drum for stopping.
If the car does not have brakes, do not drive it. The star needs to be replaced, but just pull it out and clean it add a little grease. Put it back.
You need it so the shoes can self-adjust. You might be able to free it up with rust-buster. Don't drive the car without it, that's silly. If you know how to do drum brakes (as you claim to) then you know that it holds the shoes in place.
That part is really inexpensive. Just get a new one. If you soak it in WD 40, it will free up. Take it off the car to do this.
You can remove the thing and take it to a brake shop. They can heat it and spray it down with PB blaster. The chemicals should free up the rust. Then, they can install fresh grease for you. Or, you can just buy a new one. They must be adjusted to take up the slack in the drum. Otherwise, the drum will either wear out too quickly,or it will shift brake pressure to the front, and THEY will wear out too quickly. Good lucK!!