Question
30 Model A Brake
QUESTION: I am doing a brake job for a friends 1930 Model A and I have come to a point that I need a second opinion for these front brake. I own a 1929 Model A (Special Coup (49A)), and have performed countless brake jobs, and this is the first time I have encountered this problem. I am looking for a second opinion.
The brakes were rebuilt by another mechanic before my friend brought it to me because they were not working, and the rear hub were so bad the rivets were scraping the hub. Initially, the front axel was removed and rebuilt by someone that was obviously not as familiar with Model A's. When assembled, the front brakes could not be adjusted properly. I found the wedge badly worn and bought new wedges from MAC's auto. They are oversized, at least they seem to be because the top of the wedge is interfering with the springs on both sides. When installed, and adjusted properly, the operating rods are about an inch too short, but measured to spec of 51 1/2". With these new wedges and the brake arm forward, the arm is too far forward to connect the rods. To connect the rod, there would be too few threads to securely hold the eye. Also, there is a slight drag with the adjustment all the way out. Your thoughts.
Thank you for your time, and if you have questions for further clarification, please communicate via email.
Bob
ANSWER: I know this is far out, but the king pins may be on the wrong side of car. I don't understand the wedge hitting the springs. The wedge should be the same size as the old one. I have never heard of a oversized one. Also, question the brake lever assy. that actuates the vertical rod. It may also be on the wrong side. This stuff can get all mixed up. Just go through it all and question everything. Let me know what you find. I am in the middle of a brake job for a friend also.
Good luck
Jack
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: After I reviewed your answer, I went to get my Model A Ford Mechanics Handbook by Les Andrews to review the Kingpin installation process and did not see anything mentioned about a difference of "Left" or "Right" Kingpins. What is the difference between the left and right kingpin? And/or, how would I differentiate them during an assembly of the front axel if someone did not mark them during disassembly? During my experience in rebuilding the front axel, I can not recall seeing any markings of "L" or "R"...
Thanks again for your time.
Bob
AnswerBob, look at your king pins and you will see that the top is offset a little from the vertical centerline. There is a rt and lt. Not marked though. I bet that is your problem. Look at the picture on page 1-39 in Andrews book.
Let me know.
jack
