Adjusting the Brakes

[LibTimothy]

OK I know this has been addressed is several topics before, but I just want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row.

I am getting ready to adjust the brakes on my 712. I have not done this before. I think I understand the process to be the following:

1. Remove wheel.
2. Remove drum.
3. Inspect brakes (for what????)
4. ReInstall drum.
5. Bolt drum on with two lug nuts.
6. Turn adjuster until the tire is hard to turn (How hard??)
7. Back off front and rear adjusters 2 clicks - back off middle axle adjuster 3 clicks
8. Remove lug nuts - reinstall tire

Do I have the steps correct?

If so, then a) inspect brakes for what, b) how hard to turn, and c) what parts should I have on hand before I start this job?

Thanks!

Timothy

[Kirby]

Beer
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.
.
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to celebrate a job well done!

[LibTimothy]

I thought beer was understood...... Like having a wrench.

Timothy

[Erik712m]

Inspect brakes (for what????)

Pad wear.. Also look around the wheel flange were it enters the hub for leaks and clean any dirt.

Turn adjuster until the tire is hard to turn (How hard??)

Until it won't turn by hand.

Back off front and rear adjusters 2 clicks - back off middle axle adjuster 3 clicks

Driver side front turns in the opposite direction.

[Erik712m]

Also run a small nail up the weeps to push any dirt out.

[LibTimothy]

OK. One more small question.

Should the drums be difficult to remove? Last time I had the tires off I tried to remove the drums to look at the brakes and could not remove them. Should they be that difficult? How much force should I use? Is hitting them with a rubber mallet OK?

I always thought drums should come off easier than that.

Timothy

[Erik712m]

I've hit mine before.May want to consider placing wheel on a jack stand. And block so it doesn't roll on you.

[krick3tt]

There are two bolts needed to help get the drum off, they screw in the holes, push against the plate and the drum comes off. Screw them in equally to keep the drum straight. Best not to pound them off.
Surprised this has not been mentioned yet.

[Erik712m]

Forgot about the thrust bolts. I've taped mine off.

[krick3tt]

'I've taped mine off'


??????????????What does that mean???????????????????????

[Erik712m]

It means I did not spell the word right. I was tring to say tapped with a hammer. Also have seen a pinz repair shop do this when was at there shop.

[LibTimothy]

Bolts?!?!?????

Ah, the super secret brake drum removal method finally revealed. Well.. almost....

Size? Thread? Length?

I don't want to use a hammer as I have a track record of zealousness.

Isn't this fun

Timothy

[Erik712m]

Read the freaking manual... Page twenty in the brake section.

[David Dunn]

Now, now Erik. I'm the raving lunatic around here. Don't tread on my turf!

Timothy,
If you haven't adjusted drum brakes before and do not have the repair manual, STOP, and get help from a mechanic that has. Unlike other repairs where the worse is the vehicle won't run. Making a mistake on brakes may not be found until you need the brakes most.

I know of one child killed because of improper brake adjustments on a Pinz when the driver had to make an emergency stop, or I should say, "attempted" to stop.

It is a good thing to want to learn, but do it safely, and have some one there to supervise and check things as you go.

Dave

[Erik712m]

Dave, sorry but after his last post.. I went and read the manual again . It is very spelled out. Even gives step by step play. You guys bust my balls about spelling but very rearlly, do I ask questions if its in the manual.