Groaning Brakes
 

1931 Roadster had the brakes relined in the 1960's and has been stored (indoors) ever since. After being revived, the brakes groan loudly when applied. They seem to work ok but are very noisy. I have thought of removing the drums and tapering the leading edges of the linings with a rasp. maybe a quick sanding of the face of the linings as well. Any other ideas?

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

I would take the drums of if for no other reason than to grease the front wheel bearings and to re-torque the rear axel bolts.

Good idea to inspect. Not a lot of work, and you get a good look at what is a very important operating part of your car.

Enjoy.

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

I wouldn't grind, sand or files the shoes because they probably contain asbestos ! The drums probably are rusty, removing them and greasing the bearings sounds like a good plan, then you could remove the rust.

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

^^^^
This!

I hear drum brakes groan pretty often, especially if there is any rust inside the drum. Greasing the bearings is a good idea. And make sure that all of the brake mechanism, springs, etc. are free to move. The linings will take the rust off with use.

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Re: Groaning Brakes
 

Thanks everyone. Yes, I will be removing the drums to do an inspection. I will post what I find. If my memory is correct (50%/50% chance!). The linings are the woven ones with brass wire interwoven. Don't think they contained asbestos.

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

Most likely surface rust on the drums, drive it and use tthe brakes often. JMO
Paul in CT

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

On my '30 Tudor, they only seem to groan when I brake on a slope in reverse. Like backing out of the garage which has a downhill slope.
Luckily I have no strange sound while braking going forward.

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

Done in the 60's! I would check the wheel cylinders, fuel pump, turn signals, master cylinder, electric window motors and vacuum trunk release.....if I was looking at anything but an A! Ain't the A's simple!!!!!!

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

When I first started reading your comments, I didn’t know where you were going.

Great comparison!

Enjoy.

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

On a similar topic: What causes squeaking brakes and how do I stop it?

Re: Groaning Brakes
 

Did all that between 9:00 am and 9:03 before I cleaned and reinstalled my oil pan. The only problem I had was that I had nobody to stand behind me and verify that they could see my turn signals. I couldn't find anyone that could translate what the signals meant anyway.