Date:         Thu, 21 May 2009 20:44:27 -0800
Reply-To:     colorworks@GCI.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Subject:      brake shoe installation help (long)
Comments: To: mark drillock <mdrillock@cox.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=Windows-1252

Just finished up both sides of the van, after correctly installing the springs as Mark suggested. What a difference! I can now easily adjust the star wheels, and within five or six clicks things were adjusted perfectly. I did still use 2, 1mm spacers at the bottom--no problem and should help with more even wear. The previous owner or shop had also put in the adjusting rod, so that the long part of the "F" was backwards. Now my emergency brake actually works as it should, could probably be tightened up a tiny bit even. I have yet to bleed the brakes and go for a test drive, but I'm quite certain this is going to make a huge difference. So very grateful for the wonderful suggestion Mark! Can't thank you enough!

Troy

<<The difference is just how they hook to the center. If the one closest
to the adjuster is the wrong one the shank of the hook will bind against
the adjuster wheel and then it won't self adjust.

Both springs should have the long shank at the bottom, open end of the
hook facing up. This can't work unless the 2 springs are mirrors of each
other.

The mistake of mixing them up is common, even by brake shops.>>

Mark