Adjusting brakes

[CWilson]

I adjusted my brakes according to the Red book. So much better. When I stomp on the brakes going 25-30 mph, the rear brakes don't completely lock up, but there are noticeable black tread marks left on the pavement. Does this seem about right? You can barely make out the sound of the rear tires squealing.

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Sounds like you are good to go..............I mean good to stop.

 

[redmodelt]

Skidding/locking up = loss of traction = loss of stopping

 

[J Franklin]

Why won't they lock? they should, and the control for not skidding is your foot. If the wheel turns with slight drag and there is adequate movement of the brake rods they should lock. Maybe it needs another turn on the clevis or shoe adjustment.

 

[CWilson]

I already adjusted one more click, and it seemed too tight. Maybe that's where it is supposed to be. Maybe it comes down to preference and driving style?

 

[CWilson]

Skidding/locking up = loss of traction = loss of stopping

Kind of what I was thinking also, but Franklin makes a good point also, your foot is the control.

 

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Why won't they lock? they should, and the control for not skidding is your foot. If the wheel turns with slight drag and there is adequate movement of the brake rods they should lock. Maybe it needs another turn on the clevis or shoe adjustment.

BUT, J,
We don't need locking & skidding What if the road were WET or ICY?--Then they'll READ about you in the OBITUARIES---"GONE & will be remembered for 2 WEEKS"---On the plus side, you won't get any OLDER & won't have to overstress your "BRAIN", remembering stuff.
Bill W.

 

[J Franklin]

Maybe we can call that antique anti-lock brakes.

 

[Jacksonlll]

The model a is a rear skid design. The should lock up.