Re: 1940 Brake Adjustment

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/8/13 10:03:37

Dear Joe:

The procedure in the manual only works when the parts are within spec. - read new.

What you need to do is send the drums and shoes to a place like Fort Wayne Clutch and have the shoes fitted to the drums.

To start, the slot in the eccentric should be near straight up and down with eccentric in the upward/rearward. You will notice the one tab is higher than the other. If I remember correctly the high tab goes toward the back. But it's a straight forward check as turning the eccentric in the direction of wheel rotation should be moving the secondary closer to the drum.

Also, do not overgrease wheel bearings. There is a vortex action in the hub that causes grease to fly out.

You can buy a gadget called a Handi-Packer that will fill the bearing with the correct amount of grease. Use number 2 trailer or wheel bearing grease. Clean all grease out of the hub. Don't pack grease into the hub.

Hope this helps, and note that given the drums are worn the car should not be operated in a severe manner.