Adjusting 37 Ford mechanical brakes

Tom in SW VA

Tom in SW VA

Well-known member
Need reference on how to adjust mechanical brakes on my 37 Ford. Know an instruction sheet or video? Or your expertise.

Thanking you in advance.
 
When adjusting the "37", or any Ford with cable brakes, be sure all cables between the cross shaft and the backing plates are free to move in their housings. Before adjusting, with each wheel off the ground, block the brake pedal down. At the wheel, turn the adjuster until the wheel is locked, then back it off just enough to be able to turn the wheel. Do this at each wheel, then release the pedal. If you need more or less pedal travel, adjust the connection between the cross shaft and the pedal.
 
There is a procedure for adjusting the cables and brakes in the reprinted publication V-14 "Ford 1937 and 1938 Engine and Chassis Repair Manual." The manual has a dark blue cover and is available from many of the vendors or on E-bay.

Also, the brake cross shaft has two holes for the rod from the brake pedal. These two holes can be used to change the amount of effort needed to apply the brakes and change the amount of pedal travel.
 
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Another good source for brake adjustment instructions is the reprint of the 38-40 Ford Service Bulletins (despite the name it also covers 32-37). If you plan to work on your car you will find the service bulletins helpful.
 
I follow Superreals (#2) procedure by pulling the emergency brake on two notches and tighten the adjuster until I can just turn the wheel that is off the ground, then release the emergency brake and check the wheel for free spin. Do this to the remaining three wheels. then road test to check for pull, preferably in your long driveway. The emergency brake sets all four wheels - very effective.
 
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