[Pilotdave]

jb-ob, thanks for your input! A couple of things:

1. After installing the new shoe I kept checking the drum as I tightened the adjusting wedge and could feel it progress through stages from free wheeling to locked. I checked each time I tightened it to be sure that the adjusting wedge wasn't hung up on one of its ridges.

2. The old linings have a glazed appearance and feel slick in comparison to the new lining.

3. The internal parts of the brake unit appear to be in proper condition. The tracks are in good shape, the operating pin, wedge, rollers and roller pins are new and in good shape, and the brake unit operates freely and smoothly when I operate the brake lever which is set at slightly more than 15 degrees with free play removed.

4. My plan is to replace all 4 - not just 1 - of the front brake linings. I'll then check the rear brakes, then reset all the brakes.

I agree with you that these brakes are a simple system! I'll report back....

Dave