Grabbing Rear Brake on '71

[DreamRyder1963]

The rear passenger-side shoe on my '71 is grabbing under braking and locks up well before the other wheels. It also grabs some while the truck is not under braking. I pulled the drum off and the wheel cylinder it not leaking and the shoes are still in intact. Could it simply be that the shoes need to be backed off a little?

[DreamRyder1963]

I backed the shoes back a little, and it seems to have fixed it. The truck is still braking straight so I will see what happens.

[Andy4639]

That would be my first thing to try. Take the wheels off both sides and see if the passenger side is harder to turn by hand, if so then back it off until they both feel the same. No wrenches on them just use your hands.

[cdowns]

i'd check the selfadjusters(the starwheels) to see that they are both free and turn easily

[airdale94]

Have you to used your e-brake lately? It could be hanging up on one side. You could have a out of round drum also (warped).

[68gmsee]

I've had a couple of my truck do that in the last few years. On my 68, it got to the point where I was scaring the hell out of people at stop lights if I had to make a sudden stop. It's embarrassing when every one stops and stares at you. Found out my shoes were glazed over so I replaced all the shoes and turned the drums. Also, while I was at it, did a complete job and bought all new cylinders, hoses and spring kits.

On my other truck it was the left front disc brake that would first start make a rattling noise and then grab. Turned out to be a bad spot on the shoe. While I was at it, I replaced the rotor also just in case.

[DreamRyder1963]

I hadn't thought of it being glazed over. I did have to use the e-brake a couple days ago, I try not to use it. That could of triggered the problem.

[68gmsee]

Originally Posted by DreamRyder1963

I hadn't thought of it being glazed over. I did have to use the e-brake a couple days ago, I try not to use it. That could of triggered the problem.

Actually, the recommendation is to use the parking brake as much as possible even if you don't need it. This keeps it from freezing up on you. I spay mine every so often with WD40 also.

One thing that you may want to consider is the rubber brake hose going to the rear brakes on top of the rear axle. It may be starting to collapse internally on you and allowing more fluid to one brake. If it's never been replaced, old, or you're not sure, I'd replace it anyway.

[DreamRyder1963]

I don't usually use my e-brake because I had an issue with it getting stuck anytime it was engaged and sat for a couple hours. It would go back to normal as soon as it heated back up. It probably needs to just be replaced but its low on the list since this is my dd.

[68gmsee]

Originally Posted by DreamRyder1963

I don't usually use my e-brake because I had an issue with it getting stuck anytime it was engaged and sat for a couple hours. It would go back to normal as soon as it heated back up. It probably needs to just be replaced but its low on the list since this is my dd.

Since it went back to normal you may be able to just lube it to make it work without binding. I've heard of some problems with aftermarket ones not being exact. Regardless, I see your point.