HELP!

[radman]

Hi there,

I am in desperate need of your help! I am meant to be off to the New Forest tomorrow. Took the van for a spin this morning, first outing since it was serviced and when I got home one of the rear wheel drums smelt hot and there was some smoke from that area. Wheel trim off and the wheel was very hot! I know that brakes can be adjusted could anyone give me a quick over view how? Unfortunately the local Quickfit will not even look at it until tuesday - just in case they need parts!?

Radman

[HarryMann]

No. 1
Get the brake drum off and use Mk 1 eyeballs...

No. 2
Clean everything (de-dust with stiff brush).. use Mk 1 eyeball again

No. 3

https://club8090.co.uk/wiki/Br ... _servicing

Could possibly suspect the handbrake cable is sticking, but not that common

Its also possible that brake shoe has started breaking up

Sorry not time to list everything possible, but chekout that link above

PS. Quikfit would be the last outfit I'd take a 20 year-old VW to for brake servicing... nothing Quik about doing a proper job that will last.

PS2. If unsure what you ar looking at, take some good close-up (in-focus) piccies and post them up here

PS3. If brakes 'JUST' need adjusting, they would be doing the opposite of binding? Simple adjustment is the last step after cleaning, replacement of parts as necessary and overall servicing. If you see what I mean

PS4. Sounds like you need a friend/helper around who knows these (or drum brakes generally) quite well....

Anybody in Kent who can help ??

[radman]

Harryman thanks for your advice!

Brakes were serviced with new pads & shoes last year, I've only done 3000mls since. I always leave the van in gear handbrake off when the van is in the drive way. The van had its annual service 1 week ago and thats when the over adjustment was made. Ive adjusted rear brakes both sides since there was obvious friction, test drove and I am pleased to report everything seems much better. I have to say that the brake adjustments took me back to my student / VW beetle days! The holiday is now back on track and I don't have to disappoint the kids.

Radman

[HarryMann]

Yes, a bit too easy to overadjust them.. specially with new shoes, that take quite a while to shape up and bed in. Best pop the drums off again in a few hundred miles and de-dust and see if they can stand a click or two. An overhaul also often includes a set of new return springs, which I think can still be got from VW, or Mr S. Baxter esq.