8n brake problem.

[pdhntr]

'51 8n. Not sure of the right terminology here, but the right brake was "hanging up", i.e. getting stuck against the drum and allowing the brake lever to fall to the floor board. Typically, I stop, reverse and it releases.

I pulled it apart and it was covered with black stuff. At one time the seal must have been leaking, but now that the tractor is in use, the backing plate is dry and no sign of leak.

I cleaned up the shoes, and sprayed them down with lots of brake cleaner and put everything back together.

It is better, but still locks up.

The shoes are in like new condition, made in Taiwan.

1. Is there supposed to be one of the shoes that has a little less pad on it? (Both shoes, top and bottom are exactly the same.)

2. I seem to remember from this site, that a leading edge of a pad should be beveled? Am I remembering that correctly?

3. Should I replace the one side? With oil being ground into the pad, will it ever be right?

Thanks.

Jim

 

[souNdguy]

yes, chamfer slightly the leading edge of the pad, and if they are adjusted too tight.. back off a click or two.

soundguy

 

[Bob Purinton]

I suggested in another post about oily brake shoes
that you could put some gritty Ajax Cleanser in the
drum and let the shoes grind against it. This will
help get rid of the oil and rough up your shoes and
drum so they work better. Apply cleanser from a
squeeze bottle like ketchup or mustard comes in. Put
it down so the nozzle is between the drum and
backing plate and give 'er a little squeeze. apply
as needed.

 

[pdhntr]

I have been researching the archives also, and with Soundguy's and Bob help, I think I might know a couple of things that I can do.

The drum surface looks like it has been polished to a high gloss. I think I need to rough up the surface. Brake the glaze, so to speak. The brakes were not grabbing that well, and it felt like I really needed to put more pressure on the brake levers than should be needed.

I also have to bevel the leading edge on both sides.

No big deal. I am getting pretty good at getting at the brakes and with 2 inches of fresh snow tonight, I will certainly have the time.

Thanks guys.

Jim