Question on Brakes

[67 evil eleanor]

I have the Deuce running now but I'm not so sure that the brakes are up to snuff. When I hit the pedal it has some resistance about half the way down but there seems to be no effective braking until it hits the half way point. Then the brakes seem to work but I'm not sure they will stop the vehicle quickly. The PO let the truck sit for about 18 months and once I got the truck home (towed) I started checking things and the brake reservoir was empty. There was only a trace of fluid in the bottom. Can you guys tell me "how" the brake "suppose" to feel.

 

[Jas0n]

I was just reading a thread that might be helpful to you, another guy was having brake issues and people were posting all sort of responses:

http://www.steelsoldiers.com/deuce/95287-bought-my-first-deuce-brakes-seem-weak.html

 

[Flyingvan911]

The first step is usually to bleed the brakes. They may have air in them. The DOT 5 fluid will be expensive.

 

[67 evil eleanor]

I read the thread but didn't really catch a direct cause. I guess I'll need to go through both the hydraulic and pneumatic sides of the system....

 

[bigmike]

I've had this same issue when I got my first deuce. It was air in the lines. Make a power bleeder (plenty of threads on this topic) out of a garden sprayer and bleed the heck out of the system. I ran at least a quart of brake fluid thru the truck before getting the pesky air pockets out of the lines.

 

[mikew]

Certainly bleed the brakes then adjust the shoes.

They stop MUCH better when the shoes are properly adjusted.

 

[swbradley1]

Check for air in the lines first. BFS should run $40-50 at the rallies or online as surplus.

Gimpy and I have used my power bleeder from here:
Motive Products #1 Selling DIY Brake Bleeder


Putting one of these on my M813:
https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3558

 

[gungearz]

Bleed, adjust, and inspect. My brakes feel like regular 80's non abs brakes. Hope this helps in comparison....