My Willys 3A and 3B Community

3A, 3B, DJ Technical Knowledge Base => "Original"-- Technical Questions, Answers, Observations => Topic started by: myg on December 12, 2010, 10:09:31 PM

Title: front brake adjustment
Post by: myg on December 12, 2010, 10:09:31 PM
new to willys and this site and i'm looking for help. i have a 1950 3a willys and the front right brake is dragging. after making the appropriate eccentric adjustments so that  the wheel turns freely and making sure it stays that way by rechecking it after applying the brake pedal, the problem returns after just a few stops on the road. it's bad enough to where the jeep labors with the sticking brake. if it makes any difference, the wheel turns much easier when spun backwards than forwards. also, the drums are new as well as the rest of the entire brake system. the problem started shortly after it arrived from the shipper and the previous owner who did the restoration says he never had the problem. thanks in advance.
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: Carls_jeep on December 12, 2010, 10:16:44 PM
You need to pull the brake drum and check the brake shoe springs and linings. Are you adjusting the top and bottom cams?
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: rocketeer on December 12, 2010, 10:32:15 PM
I agree with Carl, there is a problem with the brake other than cam adjustment. A spring may have broken, lining may have cracked/broken, or the wheel cylinder may have rust or corrosion causing it to stick and not return fully.

Larry
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: myg on December 12, 2010, 11:05:00 PM
is the socket used to take off the nut on the axle a standard size or a specific tool? also, any hints on removing the drum. and yes, i did adjust the bottom two anchor pins as well. thanks for the replies.
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: Carls_jeep on December 13, 2010, 03:23:50 PM
I measured my spare nuts and the socket and it takes a 2 1/16" socket for the front wheel spindle nuts.
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: myg on December 13, 2010, 05:13:01 PM
thanks.
Title: Re: front brake adjustment
Post by: jamesr on December 14, 2010, 08:58:26 AM
You don't need a Proto socket.  You can buy an inexpensive socket of the proper size at NAPA, Carquest, or any distributor of Jeep parts.l Jim