How much drag should the pads have on the disc brake rotor? Mine seem very tight, hard to turn and they stop as soon as I let go. Checked for residual pressure by cracking the bleed valve but nothing came out. This is on a '72 brake system.

Also, how do you get a brake drum off that's stuck? My right rear acts like it's welded to the axle, no amount of tapping or prying moves it.

Thanks, Jim

I think most disc brakes drag like that, mine do. I don't know how much drag is too much though. If the slide pins are rusty or not lubed enough, you might have more drag than necessary.....

To get a stuck drum off, I spray PB Blaster around the hub. That's usually where they are stuck. (You did try loosening the shoes didn't you? smile.gif ) Then after the penetrating oil has some time to soak in, I heat that joint between the drum and the axle with a torch. I use a small bernzomatic one with oxygen and propane. Concentrate the heat on the drum, and not the axle though. Once it's hot enough, I usually hear a "BINK" and it has popped loose. Good luck!

chris

I've heard and used a few tricks to get stuck drums off:

1. Hit the drum with a hammer, head on. Hit it INTO the axle. Worked for me once.
2. Loosen but do not remove the lug nuts and wheel, so you have a good space open on the studs. Then start with the wheel against the drum and pull quickly. Acts like a big battering ram. This also worked for me once.

Good luck!