help!! does anybody know how i can improve the rear brakes on my 1995 townace royal lounge, i cant get it past the sva braking test of 60% i can only achieve 52% it seems like the rear brakes are the problem even though i've replaced the shoes and adjusted the brake balance all in vain.

- (#8029) DENNIS HENSON, 11 Apr 03 13:40

Have the new shoes had a chance to 'bed in' yet? This could be a reason as they take a while.

Assuming the rear brakes are adjusted up correctly and the drums/linings are not contaminated - ie
did you check the brake cylinders not weeping, moving freely and use brake cleaner etc. on drums......

Possibly contaminated fluid, is pedal pressure firm? - could try bleeding if not

Trace all brake lines and examine upto master cylinder - ensure no loss around cylinder
Check all vacuum tubes related to system
A lot of motor vehicles have an in line pressure regulator which restricts the fluid flow to the rear, however I would guess this would be the last thing to go wrong

I would check that the shoes have bedded, clean with brake cleaner and be certain that adjustment is correct to begin with
HTH
Chris
- (#8030) Chris Turner, 11 Apr 03 16:17

yup, there's a regulator valve, it's connected to the rear axle via a spring rod. Are the handbrake cables 100%? If they are sticking, they might not allow the self adjusters on the shoes to pull up...

- (#8031) david miller, 12 Apr 03 2:12

You can get through an oval slot on the backplate to adjust the shoes (starwheel adjuster). remove the rubber bung and use a stubby flat bladed screwdriver.
I changed the rear shoes on mine and they were ok straight away . Make sure you have the auto adjusters on the right wheel or they will work against you ( adjust the shoes further away instead of nearer- ones a left hand thread ) The handbrake is known for being extremely effecient so there is something wrong for sure

- (#8032) J Adgo, 12 Apr 03 11:13