Brakes for International 300

We added a used 300 to our collection that didn't run and didn't have brakes. Got the manual ordered, but before I tear into it, how good were the brakes from the factory?

Seems like a handy little tractor, and worth some time and money to make it right. Not going to tow any big loads with it, but the land around here has some pretty good hills. I'm sure I can get it back to
original standards, or very close, but some of the tractors made in the 50's weren't too good when they were new. Not familiar with this one. Don't want to pour a bunch of time and money into it if the
original design is lacking. Appreciate any advice!

It has a FastHitch and a 3 point conversion for it. Will post some photos of our progress.
 
I'll give you my opinion about the disk brakes used on those tractors and other will disagree. I think they are junk. They do work when everything is free and good pads but they need a lot more fussing with to keep them working than band brakes and in my opinion don't stop the tractor any better.
 
Not sure if you have Farmall RC or International Utility, the brakes are most likely the same. I have the RC which has disc brakes. I was able to free up the rotors and replace broken springs, also cleaned the rotor surface with sandpaper and installed new discs. This site sales the discs. The brakes work well. Others have stated the brakes were not much when new, I may have got lucky, as they will stop the tractor within a short distance. You do need to check the channel that the expansion balls roll in, if they have excessive wear your brakes may lock, also check the balls to make sure they are good and round.
 
Those style disk brakes were know for the ker-pop-chunk then over brake or basically locking up. This mainly happens when the balls in the ramps of the expander acuator plates are rusty/dirty and lacking proper lube. If it has a narrow front you should be able use moderate pedal pressure to stop one wheel and spin the steering wheel around. By doing this being able to make a 180 degree turn with the tire you stopped heading the opposite direction in the same track. Of course this should only be tried when moving in gears 1-3 for safety sake. I?ll add more later with a link to the IH online or parts page if I have time.
 
This is the International Utility, with the typical wide front end. It's stored in a pole shed about 20 minutes from my house. I'll take a closer look at it today, and post a photo. Thanks for the tips so far.
 

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