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  • 1938 Packard: Bleeding Brakes, Final Brake Adjustment
    		•
    From "Classic Car Restoration"
    episode DCR-405


    In this episode of Classic Car Restoration, host Mark Lambert evaluates the brake system on our 1938 Packard, checking the hoses and master cylinder. He removes and rebuilds the master cylinder and then re-installs it. He also shows how to make new brake lines using a metal tubing bender. Lastly, he bleeds the brakes and makes the final adjustments. In this fourth segment of episode 405, Lambert bleeds the brake system and makes final adjustments.

    Note: This is a summary of steps included in the automotive restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Car Restoration. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of vehicle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgrade kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.

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    Materials used in this episode:

    Standard automotive tools (socket-wrenches, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, etc.)
    Regular drill with break honing bit
    Replacement break fluid
    Replacement master cylinder kit
    Tapered drift punch
    Tubing cutter
    Tubing flaring tool
    Tubing bender
    Brake spoon

    Bleeding the Brake System

    Caution: Always use fresh brake fluid from a sealed container and do not agitate the bottle because it will put more air into your brake system.

    Alert: The proper procedure for bleeding a car is starting with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder.

    • Gently fill your reservoir to the threads. (If you drop any on the paint, remove immediately.)

    • Go to the bleeder valve (figure A). Our car had a pre-war bleeder valve, but today we used an updated valve to hook our hose to it (figure B). This way, you can see when the system is purged of all the air.
      Photo

      Figure A
      		Photo

      Figure B

      PHOTO

      Figure C

    • To bleed the system, pump the brakes or pull the brake pedal at the master cylinder (figure C).

    • You will see the dirty fluid coming through. Keep checking your level.

    • Refill the master cylinder with brake fluid as necessary until the fluid runs clear, without any trapped air.

    • Pause at the top of each pedal return just for a moment to let the cylinder refill.

    • Immediately tighten the bleeder screw when the air is out of the system.

    Final Brake Adjustments

    PHOTO

    Figure D

    • Adjusting your brake shoes can be done by inserting a brake spoon in the little window inside the brake cover. There should be a cover over the window. If it’s Pre- War, replace it with a neoprene cover (figure D).

    • Once your spoon is in (figure E), you can hear it making contact with the star wheel (figure F). What you want is a gentle, even drag on this all the way around. After you push it and lift your hand, you only want about one full rotation of the tire (figure G).
    Photo

    Figure E
    		Photo

    Figure F
    		Photo

    Figure G

    PHOTO

    Figure H