Soft Brakes

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Nov 13, 2013 | 10:24 AM

chefcharles

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From: San Diego CA

Soft Brakes

I have a '72 F100 w/ 360fe. I am having to push the brake pedal a lot farther than I used to. I somewhat sudden, not progressive. The brakes are stock drums not power assisted. Should I add fluid and bleed or is it an adjustment. There is no noise or vibration. I noticed a slight smell on a downhill freeway exit when it took some pressure. They have always worked great and still do except I feel I am running out of pedal.
Any help and guidance would be much appreciated.

Nov 13, 2013 | 11:18 AM

Gembone

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Joined: Nov 2012

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From: Las Vegas, NV

sounds like you might have a leaking wheel cylinder. Pull the drums and check for fluid.
This is also a good time to clean and adjust them. If the shoes are soaked in fluid then replace them along with the wheel cylinders.

Nov 13, 2013 | 02:32 PM

chefcharles

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From: San Diego CA

Should I see fluid under or around the problem wheel.

Nov 13, 2013 | 02:33 PM

Gettysburg150

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Quote:

Originally Posted by chefcharles

Should I see fluid under or around the problem wheel.

If its severe you can, if it just started leaking the drum and shoes do a good job of holding the fluid in there

Nov 13, 2013 | 04:41 PM

JEFFFAFA

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From: Phoenix, Az.

Also check all three brake rubber hoses for cracks,leaking,weak sides,etc. There is one going to each front brake and the third is from the metal tube that runs down along the frame to the rear axle. There are metal lines that go from there to each wheel.

Nov 13, 2013 | 09:52 PM

chefcharles

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From: San Diego CA

When i checked the fluid just the front reservoir was low. The rear was fine.
Does this indicate front or back could be the issue.
Trying to out which end to jack up first