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Old 10-01-2019, 06:56 PM   #1
Russ/40
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Default Strange E-brake observation

Trying to get the "A" all tuned up for the long drive to my daughter's wedding, I noticed my e-brake does not hold well. I adjusted the e-brakes by taking the freeplay out of the rods by turning the turnbuckles right and left. I pulled on the rods by hand to get the adjustment I needed. When done, I checked for drag with the e-brake fully released and noted no drag on the wheels.
When I pulled the e-brake full on and checked for wheel drag, ( this is the part I don't understand ) The wheel turned without drag for about 15 degrees or so, then locked. The other side acted the same way. Easy turn for a few degrees then lock. The car was in neutral, ok, but why the free movement before a lockup. It actually feels like the car is in gear and the brake is off. But, its fully on. Is this normal or am I missing something. It does not act like any e-brake Ive ever seen.
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Old 10-01-2019, 07:06 PM   #2
Keith True
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

It sounds like somebody used the parking brake to slow the car down,using it as a service brake.I've seen those things torn up terribly inside from being pulled while the car was moving.I think you are going to have to take it apart to check it out.At least it is an easy job.
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Old 10-02-2019, 07:38 AM   #3
Mel Gross
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

As Keith mentioned, it sound as if the emergency brakes where applied with the car in motion. This causes a lot of wear on the emergency brake carrier. If you pull the drums off and inspect the carrier bridge (the area between the band ends) you will probably see that they are either worn or curled over. If they are curled over, then replace them. It worn, then they can be welded back up and grounded back. If there is a small stress crack in the carrier, then it can be fixed by grinding the crack open, drilling a relief hole at the end of the crack and then welding it back up to the original surface. If the crack is big, then replace the carrier.
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Old 10-02-2019, 09:46 AM   #4
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

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At least it is an easy job.
As long as the hubs come off the axle w/out a major struggle.
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Old 10-02-2019, 05:18 PM   #5
Russ/40
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

Took the rear brakes apart to check the e-brakes. All seems well, can you see anything amiss?
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...1&d=1570054365

I could not see any cracks anywhere. Could it be component wear that engages when the wheel is turned?
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Old 10-02-2019, 06:47 PM   #6
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

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I must say, those are sure nice and clean!
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Old 10-02-2019, 07:42 PM   #7
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

It could be that the E-brake is only working on part of the drum so it's locking up on the high spot. My thoughts. JP
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Old 10-02-2019, 10:48 PM   #8
Bill Cilker
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

My guess - when you applied the emergency brake, the two sides of the band expanded evenly from the stop. Then you rotated the drums which moved one edge of the e. band to the stop, then they held.
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Old 10-02-2019, 10:56 PM   #9
J Franklin
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

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Originally Posted by Tinbasher View Post
It could be that the E-brake is only working on part of the drum so it's locking up on the high spot. My thoughts. JP
It might be worth seeing if the drum is round.
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Old 10-03-2019, 07:44 AM   #10
Mel Gross
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

You might also see if the toggle arm bushings are good / tight in the emergency brake carrier. Unhook the C link from the toggle arm, unhook the brake rod from the emergency arm and unload the spring on the back of the backing plate. Then grab either the emergency arm or toggle arm and see if there is play.
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Old 10-03-2019, 11:01 AM   #11
Russ/40
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Default Re: Strange E-brake observation

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Originally Posted by Mel Gross View Post
You might also see if the toggle arm bushings are good / tight in the emergency brake carrier. Unhook the C link from the toggle arm, unhook the brake rod from the emergency arm and unload the spring on the back of the backing plate. Then grab either the emergency arm or toggle arm and see if there is play.
Gotcha Randy, thanks! It'll have to wait for another day though, haven't got the time before the wedding. Works great for hill holding now anyway.

Thanks to all for input. Best e-brake discussion I've seen on the Barn.

Randy, I'll be hitting you up for some rear drums and service shoes in the near future.

Two things my car needs, resolution of my clutch chatter, and drums.
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