Farmall B Left Brake Issues

[jkmdg]

I had the great privelage of being able to track down my grandpa's 1945 Farmall B. It is in very good condition, but an issue I came across was that the left brake is having some issues. When I first got it, it took a lot of effort to even push down on the brake pedal and an even bigger effort to push it back up (pretty well frozen). The return spring is free and the brake shaft to the band seems free. After some PB blaster in a few spots the pedal is a lot more free, but does not retract after pushing down on the pedal. To get the left brake to even grab, I have to almost push my foot into the ground. When it does grab and I release on the pedal, the brake releases but the pedal doesnt retract/return.

I'm really trying to narrow down the issue. Is the brake band rusted down, or is it as simple as adjusting the brake?

I am really tempted to open everything up to try and get to the left brake band. Is it just as simple as unbolting the entire axle housing from the transmission case (looks like four bolts) and slide the axle away to expose the brake drum (obviously have to unbolt the drawbar too)? Or is there more disconnecting inside than what I am seeing?

I appreciate any thoughts!
 

[John B.]

It sounds like the brake band and drum are all rusted up and not grabbing.
 

[John B.]

I forgot to add that there may be oil all over the brake band also. I had to put new brake bands on my Farmall H because of leaking oil seals spilling oil all over the drum and band. Put new seals in. Has great brakes now with the new bands.
 

[Paul from MI]

Sounds like you may have a broken pedal return spring. Not totally sure, but think it may be under the seat platform. Sometimes the bands rust totally in two, but since your brakes work that's not your problem. I&T manual explains it pretty well.
 

[Morris Krodle]

I just went thru a "45 B, new brakes etc. Sound like the shaft that the pedal is on is still seizing, that shaft also hinges the clutch and has a support on the trans tube that need lube,also since it"s the left side, the brake and drum are right nest to the trans and likely you have a trans seal leaking oil. Look under the axle housing and clean out the drain hole to insure oil is present. It"s not too hard to replace the brake and seals on either side.