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Strange Brake Pedal Feel
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Posted By : Stephen Coates, 13-Feb-2006,
09:26am
Hi, I recently serviced (removing the rear shoes etc) and adjusted the rear brakes on my 1200 Herald. When I took the car for a test drive the brake pedal
would go further down on the first press of the pedal but would harden up and not go down as far on the second press of the pedal. No brakes pipes were
disconnected and the rear wheel cylinders are in good condition. I have since removed the drums again and cannot see what is the problem, even looking at
the Spitfire servicing video hasn't helped me, any ideas. Steve
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Posted By : Ian Osprey, 13-Feb-2006,
10:57am
Sounds like the shoes are not adjusted right up. The first push of the pedal would move the shoes closer to the drum face, the second shove would then
make contact and give a firm pedal.
If this is the case, then the shoes would go back to the initial position after a few momemnts, meaning that another double shove would be needed to
get the 'pedal' back. you'd also have a poor handbrake.
A further test is to pull the handbrake on slightly so that it doesnt operate on the shoes. the first shove would be a long one, but, subsequently, the
brake should feel normal.
Ian
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Posted By : Chris Taylor, 13-Feb-2006,
05:10pm
I have to agree that you probably need to adjust the shoes closer to the drums. It is difficult to describe the "feel" of the adjuster, but once you
know what you are aiming for, you can feel each "flat" on the adjuster, either side of a "high point". You need to adjust the shoes so the drum binds
on the shoes, and then back off slightly. You need to ensure that the binding is when the adjuster is on a flat, not a high point, before backing off
one or two (shouldn't need any more) flats.
What you describe COULD also be a sign that you need to replace the seals in the master cylinder, or that the brakes need bleeding. I know you have not
opened pipe fittings etc, but fluid does absorb moisture (through the rubber hoses) and need replacing about every three years.