parking brake backed off as well. the old drums were totally worn out which is why I need to replace those. They fit loose with the new pads in place. The new ones have to be forced on. Thanks for the advice.
Just a thought. Try pulling the E-brake strut out and see if the shoes pull in further at the top to allow the drum to slide on. You may need file the slot on the shoe where the strut pushes to get clearance you need.