2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Rear Brake Adjustment - REGULARLY!

[TSeran]

Recently, while cruising through town pulling my 6 ton beast, I had to make a couple of very quick stops due to other drivers ignoring my presence. No problem, I rebuilt the brakes and had a good feeling while lurching forward and catching the flying dogs.



The right front brake pads started to smoke after having to negotiate a steep hill. Everything seemed OK until I realized that the new rear pads and drums were probably still "seating" and that they just needed a little adjustment. NOT! They needed a lot of adjustment to get back to the level stop feeling I had the day they were rebuilt. I think as "things" settle-in we don't notice the changes.



The rear brakes need CONSTANT AND REGULAR attention/adjustment, especially when towing a heavy load. The broken linings removed from the rear drums, and the out of round drums are proof positive that these oversized drums and shoes wear disproportionately to the front pads.



Keep on Truckin, Tony

 

[kentdiesel]

I know what you mean. Stock and out of adjustment my brakes weren't very impressive. Sort of like stepping on a rotten plum.



With the the larger wheel cylinders I put on (1. 125 dia. vs stock 1. 062 dia. ), arc ground shoes and regular adjustment (usually every 10,000 it will need a couple clicks) the pedal is high and rock hard and it stops amazingly well.

A much safer vehicle that isn't hard on front brakes at all.