18 replies to this topic

[dklawson]

There is one other thing is worth mentioning if you replaced the shoes.  There is a proper orientation of the shoe friction material that must be observed.  Take a look at the picture in the link below for a left rear trailing arm assembly with brake backplate.  Look at the friction material on the shoes.  Notice that the friction material is not positioned equally across the metal face of the shoe, it is more towards one end of the shoe.  That is important, particularly when the shoes are new and haven't bedded in yet.  The area without the friction material should be positioned so it would "hit first" as the roadwheel is turned in its regular direction of rotation.  This is true for front and back and left and right sides of the car.  The relieved area on the shoe should be positioned so it would "hit first".

 

http://classicmotors...i-17-brakes.jpg

[grumpy dad]

Hi

I think Doug pic is a bit misleading 

as it is for a single wheel cylinder

and you could get the wrong idea

try this one it has twin wheel cylinders 

 

http://www.mgccyregister.com/RLBnctg

[dklawson]

Sorry if the picture I posted was in any way confusing.  The picture is for the rear of the Mini.  If your car is not a very early model it will have two front wheel cylinders.  

 

Regardless, my intent with the picture was to show the position of the friction material on the shoes relative to the direction of wheel rotation.  Regardless of front or rear brakes, the relieved area on the shoe is supposed to be positioned to hit first with regard to the direction the drum is rotating when driving forward.

[snowsports1]

thanks guys, especially cambiker. adjusted front brakes and all the problems went away, cant believe how such a small adjustment can make such a large difference!