hi guys about a week ago, I posted in the classifieds for linkage to hook up ac brakes Iheard from 2 guys -- seems I'm going haft to fabricate , possibility some one [better than me on this computer] can direct me to info w/ drawings/pictures from extending the brake pedal to the lever of the brake assys. Thanks Rich
I ordered the linkage from the suppliers sold for the RM brakes, works well with the AC brakes on my 15.
The original AC Brakes used pull cables with a pulley as an equalizer, see attached pics. I know some lucky individuals have found original linkage setups at swap meets.
A set of AC brakes are on the list of future upgrades for my 1923 touring/pickup, I plan to fabricate a cable setup along the lines of what is shown above.
I don't want to sound too contemptuous but that setup looks like something you'd see on a 10-cent carnival ride.
That's how they were made and sold. It works.
Two things commonly done with outside brakes on model Ts that I do not care for.
One is interconnecting the emergency brake with the service brake. It can, and occasionally does, lead to a preventable brake failure. The two braking systems should be independent of each other to the point that the only common piece between them is pretty much the wheels. If one of them falls off, you are going to stop anyway.
The other is simple equalizing systems. Whether pulleys or simple lever systems, if one wheel's brake fails due to the loss of a clevis pin or a brake band/lever failure, you lose ALL brakes. Many people leave the transmission brake in place adjusted to work after the rear brakes have failed or if pressed hard enough. IF that is set up and adjusted properly, it MAY save the day. Under certain conditions, it only gives a false sense of security and can let you down badly.
I prefer to keep the two braking systems separate through the use of a second cross-shaft. If anything breaks on one system, the other is still good. I use both systems often enough to know their condition and adjustment so that I can trust them. I also recommend using the emergency brake handle enough to be used to using it so that if anything happens while driving and you need it, it should be almost automatic to use it and feel comfortable using it.
I got my flaky camera to work today, so I took a few pictures and since it is raining, will try to post them.
Both my boat-tail and the coupe have rear wheel brakes operating off the brake pedal and handle separately. The boat-tail cross-shaft I made using remnant model T brake handle parts I had around. Having a few speedsters through the years, I had picked up some incomplete parts.
The first three are from the Boat-tail.
Continuing.
These are of the coupe. I kind of missed the shot I wanted to show the brake pedal to cross-shaft in the second one of this set. But I think you can make out part of it. The third one of the first set is the same problem. I should have used a drop-light under the car so I could aim better.
There is a lot of stuff under there. I hope you can see something that will help
The combination of the brakes how I like them with the Rocky Mountain Six Speed transmission and other things for driving in the hills was part of why I fell for this coupe and bought it. When you are opinionated and obstinate, you don't often find things the way you want them.
Drive carefully, and enjoy, W2
I enjoyed seeing the AC setup. I've seen a lot of those parts over the years, and have some of them. The authentic Rocky Mountain brakes are similar, but the pedal clamp is different, and doesn't use a guide for the equalizer rod. Interesting!
Here's some more photos of linkage.
Jay,
That is a nice clamp to go on the brake pedal. I have seen quite a few brake pedals that have been drilled to attach brake-pulls, return springs, or brake-lamp switch-pulls. I cannot remember ever seeing one that broke, but they still scare me a bit for fear of a pedal shaft/arm breaking at a bad time. A clamp around the arm is much better and that one is a beauty.
Thanks for the photos! (Even if I don't like the center-pull type)
Thank you Jay.
Drive carefully, and enjoy, W2
THANKS guys this info along with some private e mails/ phone calls will give me lots of good info to work with ,I hope to cross paths with as many of you as I can as long as we stay healthy thanks again Rich J