Mechanical Brake restoration and function

N

NealPlaz

New member
Just got my 31 Model A running...and no I didn't take everyone's advice and took it for a spin anyhow. No, the brakes didn't work well...you were all right. I'm going to start pulling the brakes apart and cleaning them up so they function properly, does anyone have any suggestions on how to go about it? And secondly, could someone explain to me how the mechanical brakes work? I've had the hubs off and watched the action inside the brakes while my friend pushed the brake pedal. Looks like only the bottom part of the shoes is expanding, no movement in the top? I'm assuming this is wrong and needs help, but can't find anything written up on it. Thank you for your time.
 
NealPlaz said:
Just got my 31 Model A running...and no I didn't take everyone's advice and took it for a spin anyhow. No, the brakes didn't work well...you were all right. I'm going to start pulling the brakes apart and cleaning them up so they function properly, does anyone have any suggestions on how to go about it? And secondly, could someone explain to me how the mechanical brakes work? I've had the hubs off and watched the action inside the brakes while my friend pushed the brake pedal. Looks like only the bottom part of the shoes is expanding, no movement in the top? I'm assuming this is wrong and needs help, but can't find anything written up on it. Thank you for your time.
Click to expand...

Nope your right. The top is adjusted so that the it just touches the drum and the bottom pushes out to stop the car.

Here is one method to adjust;

http://www.malack.com/aa/brakes2.htm
 
There was a video made a number of years ago. The narrator is a past MAFCA technical director. The title is "How To Stop On A Dime". Bratton carries the video, page 154 of their catalog.

This is an excellent video and shows animation of some of the functions of the brake system. I viewed it a number of times when I did my first brake restoration on a Model A. It tells you everything you need to know. Over the years I have had to refer back to it when I couldn't remember a particular how to.

Tom Endy
 
I would suggest reading up on the subject. There are several good book available from parts vendors. I would start with the 'Model A Ford Mechanic's Handbook' by Less Andrews. I sells for about $36.00. Order some Model A parts catalogs (usually free) because you will need parts and they usually have nice exploded views of various assemblies - including brakes. there are many other books you available. Check this site for book recommendations. Take your time and have fun, Bill
 
The first thing I would do is adjust the shoes and rods properly and then see how they work. If they are still inadequate then I would start tearing things apart.
 
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