I had the great privelage of being able to track down my grandpa's 1945 Farmall B. It is in very good condition, but an issue I came across was that the left brake is having some issues. When I first got it, it took a lot of effort to even push down on the brake pedal and an even bigger effort to push it back up (pretty well frozen). The return spring is free and the brake shaft to the band seems free. After some PB blaster in a few spots the pedal is a lot more free, but does not retract after pushing down on the pedal. To get the left brake to even grab, I have to almost push my foot into the ground. When it does grab and I release on the pedal, the brake releases but the pedal doesnt retract/return.
I'm really trying to narrow down the issue. Is the brake band rusted down, or is it as simple as adjusting the brake?
I am really tempted to open everything up to try and get to the left brake band. Is it just as simple as unbolting the entire axle housing from the transmission case (looks like four bolts) and slide the axle away to expose the brake drum (obviously have to unbolt the drawbar too)? Or is there more disconnecting inside than what I am seeing?
I appreciate any thoughts!
I'm really trying to narrow down the issue. Is the brake band rusted down, or is it as simple as adjusting the brake?
I am really tempted to open everything up to try and get to the left brake band. Is it just as simple as unbolting the entire axle housing from the transmission case (looks like four bolts) and slide the axle away to expose the brake drum (obviously have to unbolt the drawbar too)? Or is there more disconnecting inside than what I am seeing?
I appreciate any thoughts!