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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Brakes
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Question
I have 1951 Mercury, how do i adjust the brakes so i have more pedal? Second question when the time comes do you have any info where i could find brake parts or what would work on this car?
Jack up and support the car on safety stands. Locate the adjusting slot on the bottom back side of the brake backing plate. That is the round part that the brake shoes are mounted on. Using a tool called a brake spoon reach in and tighten the star wheel adjusted until the tire will just turn with a lot of drag. then back the adjuster off 14 clicks. You will feel the clicks as you are adjusting. As far as parts goes I head for my latest copy of Hemmings Motor news the old cars bible of classified adds. WWW.hemmings.com.
Brad
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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