MTFCA Forum

How far in can you adjust the low Band before it's time to reline ?
I have 3-4 threads showing before the lock nut.
If I recall, I can go about even with the nut and the end of the threads, maybe a tad more. I just don't want to damage the drum, but get as much as I can and do them all. The brake and reverse have a little ways to go still...

Thanks

Sounds like you're dangerously near the end on your low band adjustment. Take the trans cover off and have a look at the band ends. Is there any lining left there? The area that wears the greatest is the band ends, so if it's gone, or very thin, it's time to replace.

Time to reline. You need to be able to turn the lock nut on all the way, not just have a few threads. The lining is very likely worn out. It is also time to inspect and replace if necessary the low notch and low cam. You can tell whether the notch and cam need to be replaced by noticing whether your low band is fully locked around the drum with the pedal about 1" to 1 1/2" above the floorboard and when your pedal is in the neutral position you can push the car without the engine turning or turn the crank without moving the car. When the notch and cam are worn you will be only able to have a free neutral if the pedal is adjusted so that it locks the low gear when the pedal is below the floorboard. (the floorboard must be removed to check for this).

The reason for doing what I said is this. The adjustment will make that side of the band tight against the drum while the pedal must be moved very far down to tighten the opposite side of the band. This condition leads to a cracked drum and the big bang. See attachment.

Thanks guys... I was hoping to make it through the summer.
To be more clear, I have 3-4 threads showing PAST the lock nut.
All is well, free neutral, about an inch of the floor and good lock-up in low, no chatter...
I did look about a turn or so ago and adjusted the brake. Lining was still visible, but a little frayed on the ends, kinda hard to tell the thickness.

As long as the band spring isn't "bottomed out", you might have a bit left.

Here's a picture...

Lets peek inside Dave.

Dallas Landers wrote: ↑

Tue May 28, 2019 12:05 pm

Lets peek inside Dave.

Let the genie out of the bottle ?!? Yeah, I will later, probably should just "get er done" since we have bad weather for a few days.
I would guess it's been 20 years. They have detatchable ears and I have the tool and lining...

Afraid I know the answer already...
Not even half way on brake and reverse, but low is definitely worn. I see the quick change ears are on the wrong side too.
I remember low Band always did wear faster, I will look at the drum once apart. Lots of fuzz in the screen, maybe 200-250 miles.
I will post progress.

BTW, the safety wire is copper coated, 'tis attracted to a magnet.

It's time to reline...

Went ahead and got the brake and low bands out.
Used mostly some bubble wrap to protect from the dreaded MIA washer/nut, worked good.
One piece of cork was no longer there, before or after ???
I really like the way the cork feels and wears pretty good, considering the same thing. Just a couple on the ends is what Pop did.

The low band was worn, but not scary yet.

Not a bad job to do. Just nerve racking on dropsie. I used dental floss for insurance.