9 replies to this topic

[maccers]

Am trying to set the handbrake correctly, 3 clicks and tighten single nut / cable. I've put new rear shoes in and adjusted them up to spin freely - Haynes Manual says adjust so they are free. Should they literally be free like when you spin a front (disc) wheel or have some drag? I can adjust so they either lock, or have a more than slight drag but do move -  but not spin freely. 

 

 

[bpirie1000]

Adjust so they just lock then go back a bit to make sure it is free...

[cal844]

I adjust the rear adjusters so the wheel is locked solid, then back them off so that the wheel stops with enough drag to stop it in one rotation, then adjust the handbrake to lock up at 3 clicks.

[maccers]

Great, I think I need one more turn on the adjusters then set the handbrake. 

[unburntfuelinthemorning]

You'll know if you've set them too tight as the car won't roll freely when you push it and the drums will overheat.  Carefully put your hand on the wheel after a short drive, the rears shouldn't be hot at all.

[Steam]

There is no point in setting them with any drag as it will just wear the shoes. That being said it is rare to find a drum / shoe combo that does not catch on one part or other so a small amount of drag may be needed.
To get a good rear brake and handbrake the shoes and springs need to be correctly installed, it is easy to get them wrong. Check the pictures in manuals rather than following what they were previously.
Back the handbrake adjusters right off at the lever before adjusting the shoes up. Then set the hndbrake as required.

[andyapanel]

And be careful when checking the rotation of the tyres; I skinned my fingers doing it once.

[imack]

There's some duff info on line for installation of rear shoes and hardware- for example: don't use this image which comes up with a Google search as the hand brake levers are fitted to the wrong sides and are fitted upside-down which positions the shoes incorrectly so you can never adjust the shoes properly.

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[maccers]

Thanks all - re-checked the shoes and set the hand brake. One wheel locks, the other is very hard to turn. Pedal feels good and braking is spot on. 

[nicklouse]

If it’s all new don’t worry as they will need to bed in and settle. Just have them so they run freeish. Set hand brake so that it holds. Fine tune after bedding in.