Trying to learn about the braking system on a T. Did the '26 & '27 have functioning rear brakes? Or were the only brakes actually used while driving just the bands in the ******?
The inside brake shoe or "band" as I think you are calling it in 26/7 was lined. There is a external accessory brake outfit called Rocky Mountain brakes that has a external contracting band on the outside of the brake drum.
The 26-27 T park brakes are much larger than the earlier park brake. There is a outfit ( Model T Ranch ) that makes a equalizer to connect the park brake to the brake paddle so they can be used as a service brake. There are mixed revews on how well they work.
Biggest draw back using the 26/27 as service brakes, they just float inside the drum, not anchored down. Yes people do use them as parking/service brakes. As bad as Rocky Mtn are reported to be, that at least do have one anchor point.