I am coming to the end of a a lengthy restoration (It’s only taken about 18 years so far off and on!). Of a swb series 2a. Made in 1958 It is an ex army vehicle. All the brakes have been replaced with new parts, pipes flexis, master and wheel cylinders, adjusters and springs., there are 2 new brake drums and 2 originals, all seals bearings etc in the axles are new.

When I bought it 18 years ago the brakes worked and it still had a short MOT on it and I drove it home. A few weeks ago I put the brake shoes on and found that when the screws were tightened on the drums the brakes locked solid, loosen the screws and the drums were tight but would turn. I thought at first it was the drum tightening against the edge of the shoe, but tried putting thick washers as spacers between hub and brake drum so they were well clear of the edges of the shoes, but tighten the wheel nuts and the same thing happens, slacken the nuts and it turns, all the brake parts came from either Craddocks or Paddocks many years ago and seem to be the correct parts. My friend a mechanic of 30 years experience has looked at it and is as baffled as I am!. Does anyone have any ideas please?.

 

It’s been years since I played with this but I think your issue is an adjustment on the Master Cylinder.

 

Thanks for the suggestion Harvir. I will look into that.

Mark