Thanks Anthony for posting this video. However, it should be noted that you performed only a minor brake adjustment by turning the 2 cams. A major adjustment involves adjusting the bolt anchors at the heel of each shoe. They are shaped to move the heel of the shoe out and up, as needed to ensure the shoes are remain concentric to the center of the axle shaft. This task is very difficult to do without some type guiding tool. Search youtube for the steps and options to buy this brake guide tool. Properly set up, these old Lockheed brakes perform very well.
Ever have the rear drums turned? The drum/hubs on the rear are tapered. Centering them properly on the lathe has been a hassle. The outer hub ID is so small that its hard to find a centering cone.
Redoing the brakes on my 51 plymouth cambridge, wheel cylinders are in good enough condition to be rebuilt. I just cant get the piston out of the cylinder.
Wesley, I am sorry. I have no silver bullet answer. On my 49, there are six cylinders in all (four up front and two on the back). If memory serves me correctly, I could only get one of the pistons out. The one I did get out I soaked it in PB blaster for a few days. Then I believe I did my best to plug one of the holes and then shot air in it. I about gave up on it! Also, like I say, I believe when I was done with all the brakes I bought a total of five cylinders. When I made this video, I started by pulling the cylinders off the front and addressing the driver's side first, and I was able to rebuild one. After the video, I moved the rest of the way around the car and the cylinders were trash.
Richard, so sorry I am just seeing this question! It is probably too late to respond, but just in case you still need an answer. Both top and bottom bolts that hold the shoes should be snugged up tight. Don't leave them loose. The cams I refer to starting at the 12:30 mark of the video will pivot with everything snugged up. The bolt for the cam is on the backside. It adjusts the shoes for you.
