1928 split break system replacement
 

Hi,

I have a 1928 (8-1-28) Tudor Sedan. Last weekend, while driving, the split brake shaft that connects the left break rod to the right brake rod came out of place. This left me with no break system at all. It was a very dangerous 20 mile drive home. I want to replace it with the solid bar service brake system. But how do I remove the two old brake bars that are connected to the sides of the transmission? And are there any modification I will need to do so the brake pedal rod connects to the new bar and the front and rear rods connect to the shafts at the end of the bar?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Randy

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

My 28 still has a functional split system. The information you need can be found in the Service Buylletins pages 297-299, plus be sure to read page 326 before you start. Good luck.
Supergnat

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

I think you could repair the split brake system you already have. I think it would be OK if you make sure the parts are in good condition after fixing what went bad. I don't think you have to change a lot of parts if you go to the one piece brake crosshaft. I think you need to replace the clam shells around the U joint or grease will leak put the back part as there are small galleries to lub the split shaft balls. I think the rod from the pedal to the one piece shaft would be needed and of course the one piece brake shaft and hangers to attach it to the frame. I have never changed a split brake system to a one piece, so there might be another part or two you would need to change. I think the brake rods would be the same, but I am not sure about that. Maybe someone will post a response that has converted a brake system. Personally I would try to repair the split brake system you already have. There must be a failure in one part and repairing or replacing it should get you back to a safe car.
Rusty Nelson

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Did the "dog bone" fall out?

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Yes, the dog bone fell out. There is play (side to side) when the dog bone is in the two cup shafts. I have tried to get it back into the "U" and into the two cup shafts and there is not enough room. But if I put the dog bone into the two cup shafts it moves where it barley stays in one or the other cup. I saw Snyders has the dog bone and it has a round end but flat point where mine has balls on either end. I thought of putting small washers in each cup to take up the slack.

What do you think? Also, since the "U" shaft will only accept the dog bone by putting the middle of the bone in and pushing up there is not enough room to put the ends of the bone into the cups. Any ideas to make more room. I need about 1/4 of an inch. Is there a way to pull the "U" shaft up and then put it down when the dog bone is in both cups?

Thanks
Randy

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

D.J., That is kind of late for that system.?? 8-1-28... My 8-22-28 has the other style..

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

should be a small spring (but rather substantial) at each end of the 'dog bone' to keep in place! i will post coupla photos but apologize for not being able to acknowledge from whom i 'stole' them ... might try Bert's in Denver for originals ....

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Are there supposed to be springs at either end of the dog bone? or was that your answer for the play in the dog bone. I do like the spring idea better than my washer idea.

Thanks
Randy

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

I had a problum on my early 28 truck same brake system when i jacked up the engine to change timeing gear i had to loosen the motor mounts, radious rods etc, when i put it back together i did not have the right clearance on the u joint fork first time i stepped on the brake fork locked up ball dropped out i had to loosen mounts up jack up u joint to required spec's ( use caution here go slow not too much pressure with your jack ) there should be a gap between you cross member and top part of u joint i think it can be repared or adjusted to work update should be your last resort if you have any questons let me know glad to help you get brakes working

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

I think the springs are part # A-2483-R

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

The one piece brake crosshaft was introduced in November 1928, but some people have converted their earlier system to the new system.

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

see the november 28 service bulletin.

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

I would try to fix your multiple piece cross shaft if you can. If not do you have a later cross shaft. I have about a dozen extra's if you need one let me know. Rod

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Fred,
My 8-14-28(tank date) has the early style system, also a November chassis
with the same type. Remember..." first in..last out".
* my frame # 352,XXX *
Dudley

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Leave it as the car came from the factory...correct. But, I think it's time
for a rebuild / repair! Good information here plus in the "search" section.
BTW...I don't think you can or want to put the dog bone in without fixing
the problem!
Dudley

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

I am 100% WRONG, thinking of my other car..??.. :confused: Must be the BEER !!.. The 28 motor is #359,XXX... Very close to yours.. It was an Original San Diego sold car...

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Which plant? My car is SFA.

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

YA Know, I never looked for it !! ??.. I will let you know.....

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Rowdy,

Do you still have any more service brake cross shafts left? I tried several times and ways to repair the split break system but was not successful.

Just let me know. e-mail is: [email protected]

Thanks
Randy

Re: 1928 split break system replacement
 

Those springs shown above go in the arms, (legs) that go out to each side of the car. They are located in the end of the "ball" that gets placed in the "clamshell" openings on both sides. There are no springs on the "dogbone", that I have ever seen. I have seen a few "fixes" where after the dogbone was installed, a clip was screwed to cover the opening and prevent it from falling out. If you need more help, or pictures, PM me, and I will see what I can find. I have lots of those parts except the dogbones. Jim