Date:         Sun, 6 Jan 2008 19:01:39 -0500
Reply-To:     Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Subject:      Re: 1985 Vanagon - parking brake cable adjustment
Comments: To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <005801c850bf$67908800$0601a8c0@MASTERPC>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Doesn't the number of clicks vary between the early style parking brake
lever and the later type?

Mike



Dennis Haynes wrote:
> The only proper way to adjust the brake cables is with the drums removed
> so you can see the lever position. The rear cables often fail internally
> and drag preventing full release. I adjust as follows:
>
> After proper install and assembly of the shoes and other parts, disconnect
> the rear cables at both ends and check for free and smooth movement of the
> cables. Any signs of bulges or distortions in the sheath also mean time
> for replacement.
>
> Attach the cables at the front equalizer and adjust until the levers
> almost touch the adjuster bars. I like to leave a little gap. The adjuster
> should have all the slack between the shoes taken up but not actually
> holding the shoes out when doing this. After this, install the drums and
> adjust the brakes as needed using only the inside adjuster. The normal
> adjuster will now take care of both the service brake and hand brake. The
> hand brake should cause the shoes to drag at 3-4 clicks and lock up tight
> at 8.
>
> Dennis
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> AAG - Larry Word
> Sent: Saturday, January 05, 2008 9:24 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: 1985 Vanagon - parking brake cable adjustment
>
> Recently I "repaired" my emergency parking brake handle so that is holds
> up in position......
>
> Now...the rear brakes drag when I installed it - so it needs lengthening
> in its adjustment.
>
> **What makes the shoes return to their off position and thus away from the
> drum(s) - is that simply the job of the rear brake shoe "return
> springs"......
>
> Anyone have a rule of thumb for adjusting said emergency brake cables?
>
> Thanks
>
> Larry
> Ga.
>