Massey Harris brakes on FE-35

Stan Miller

New User
I have a 1958 Massey Ferguson FE-35 diesel. When I tried to adjust the brakes per the service manual, I found nothing that matched the description in the service manual. I did notice the letters MH stamped on the inner part of the wheel hub, so I'm wondering if possibly Massey Harris brakes were installed, and they have a different adjustment procedure. Is this possible, and if so, what is the MH adjustment procedure?
 
Hi Stan,
The photo shows the brake shoe set up for all 35 tractors. FE23C's and early 3 cylinder models had 'MHF' cast in the brake drums. As long as yours is a 35 it should not be any different.
If it is different, can you post a photo?
DavidP, South Wales
a45918.jpg
 
Hi David. Thanks for your feedback. I have not actually been able to remove the brake drum to look at the shoes. Do you have any suggestions for doing this?

But, what I tried to do was follow the instructions in the service manual for adjusting the brakes. The adjuster nut A and centraliser nut B (see attached picture) are not present on my tractor, which is why I believe that different brakes must be installed, and I have no clue how to adjust them.
a46047.jpg
 
Hi Stan,
That's an interesting photo! My experience does not go back as far as Massey Harris in the UK so I'll stand correction if anyone more knowledgable replies on this. I have to ask, are you sure this is the correct manual for this tractor. The square headed adjuster shown is the type fitted to TE 20 models not the 35. If you do not have this type of adjuster you should have a slot in the rear of the backplate as shown in the photo. The slot may be covered by a small clip about 3/8" wide and a bout 1 1/4" in length. It is attached at one end and requires a push or light tap to reveal the slot. Adjustment can be carried out with a large flat screwdriver but a full width ex-tyre lever as shown makes it easier. Engaging the starwheel part of the adjuster (first photo) takes a little practice. You will hear the starwheel 'clicking' against the spring. To adjust up you should move your hand from front to back up to a point where the brakes start to lock. Slacken back 4 to 6 clicks until the wheel turns freely. Do the same for the other side then lock the wheels together and test by locking both equally on tarmac or concrete.
This is the quick adjustment and will only work if the system components are in reasonable condition. If you want to do the full correct adjustment please come back.
DavidP, South Wales
a46058.jpg

a46059.jpg
 
Thanks David. This is exactly the information that I needed. My service manual indicates it covers models from TE20 - FE35, and indeed, in every other case, the info that I needed for the FE35 was there. Not so for the brakes, though. I did find the slot covered by the small clip when I was looking for the adjuster and centraliser nuts, but had no idea what it was for. Now I know! Thanks again for your help.
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top