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MG MGA - rear wheel brake cylinder

How far does the rear wheel brake cylinder move after the piston has advanced?

Thanks, George
G Goeppner

I would say it depends on the clearance between the shoe and the drum due to the state of wear and/or adjustment. Can't be much more than ½".

Andy
Andrew Dear

There is a strict limit for total motion of the MGA rear brake cylinder, and it is not much. Find pictures of the internal parts here:
http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/brakes/bt105a.htm

When the primary pressure piston hits the hand brake lever it can go no farther. If the shoes are not properly adjusted the cylinder may hit this mechanical stop before the brakes are applied, in which case you have no rear brakes.

The primary clue to rear brakes being worn and out of adjustment is that amount of travel of the hand lever. It should be adjusted to give 3 or 4 clicks and come about half way up when applied. If the hand lever gives more clicks and rises much higher, the rear brakes are in need of adjustment. If the rear brakes are properly adjusted,and the hand lever rises too high, then the cable needs adjustment. If the cable runs out of adjustment range, then it is stretched and needs to be replaced.
Barney Gaylord

This thread was discussed on 22/08/2012

MG MGA index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.