1926 Chrysler mechanical brakes

[Tonz]

My 26 Chrysler 50 with rear only mechanical brakes is starting to look almost, nearly, probably done!

I dream about what it's first outing from the shed will be like ... Then I can't sleep! Because I live on a big hill... And reside in a hilly area.

So I am seeking advise and your experiences with these.

I've been told I can put the car on stands, run it in gear applying the brakes for a pre bed-in and adjustments.

I've spent days and days on a Massey 175 grass slashing, it only had rear brakes, so I imagine it will be a similar.

Do they work well in the dry?

[viv w]

I rebuilt a Chrysler 50, if the brakes are correctly adjusted they work reasonably well and should be capable of slowing and stopping a car on a steep hill with no problems. However, if you run thru deep puddles and drench these brakes, their braking power diminishes considerably.

If you are really worried, make sure your handbrake is working well, and that the flexible couplings on the driveshaft are good. I've used the handbrake only on occasions when needed.

[Mark Gregush]

And remember, skidding is not stopping!

[a sell]

Going down a big hill the last thing you would want to do is take it out of first gear or push in the clutch. The engine braking will help significantly to avoid a run away. Once at the bottom then you can be on your way.

 

Art