Actually, Curly that's what first tipped me off.  The adjusting nut
and "equalizer" trail the handbrake lever in the center console area.
And I saw just that.  One side was pulling far and the other side was
lagging behind.  That is to say the equalizer bar and cable didn't
form right angles because one of the rear brakes is out of whack.  Esp
peculiar after a brake job.  I also noticed on the other side that the
cable guide problem existed too. Cable section with spring was not
behind the lower center tab on backing plate but rather on top of/
outside of it and not in the guide/retainer..  Fixed that and fixed
opposite side(problematic side) adjuster/star that was screwed all the
way in and binding.

Wondering:  Is the parking brake action in any way related to the
hydraulics/piston mobility.  Maybe as far as proximity to the drum,
right?  Similarly, if self adjuster is not self-adjusting then
possibly shoe could be "too far" from drum to engage, right?  I have
pumped brakes, started car, pumped brakes to set the brakes again.
Will try for pics shortly if time allows.

Kevin