Brake adjustment

[refit1701]

I remember there being some advise on brake adjustment....I have used the search function to no avail.

Are the instructions in the manuals pretty much dead on or are there any extra tips out there?

I'm nearly finished rebuilding the brake system and should be ready to get them adjusted in a few days.

[Nickathome]

I've found the book's instructions pretty straightforward, but I'm sure there will be differeing opinions on that.

[MSeriesRebuild]

Book instructions are good for getting in the ball park. The instructions there are under the assumption all parts are right on spec though, hardly ever applies precisely unless all your parts are new. There is a section that applies to adjustment on a system with worn linings that will likely get you a more precise adjustment. The catch here is do you have perfectly round drums? If not you can basically throw out the parts where the use of feeler gauges is discussed, to get a good adjustment with worn drums is pretty much by ear, a good understanding of exactly how 1 adjustment affects the other, etc. Experience in making adjustments go a LLLLLLLLLLLong way, just pay close attention to what's happening through the inspection port & work with it carefully to get the shoe to drum clearance balanced as close as possible. Even pressure at all shoe contact points when brakes are applied is the key.

[refit1701]

Thanks, Charles.