what is a brake wedge "pill"

AA Ford Discussion Group relating to the repair and restoration of your AA Ford.
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birdacre
Posts: 480
Joined: October 8th, 2013, 2:37 pm
Body Type: AA express
Model Year: 1928

what is a brake wedge "pill"

Post by birdacre »

an old wise man told me that he fixed his brakes on his model A with a "pill". I listened and then thought he was making a joke or talking gibberish. I soon realized he was not. He told me there is a small ball that you drop between worn wedges to help the brakes act quicker. He was not sure what the real name was. He said it is available in catalogues. Has anyone used these and what are they called. He then told me he fainted and dropped his head on his foot and broke it. I began to wonder and he said "No my model A head" any help with the brakes appreciated. what a neat man.
Bob C
Posts: 1442
Joined: April 24th, 2003, 11:50 am
Body Type: Mail truck, Stake tr
Model Year: 1931
Location: SO CAL

Re: what is a brake wedge "pill"

Post by Bob C »

Here is a link to the pill. https://www.brattons.com/front-brake-shim.html

Bob
birdacre
Posts: 480
Joined: October 8th, 2013, 2:37 pm
Body Type: AA express
Model Year: 1928

Re: what is a brake wedge "pill"

Post by birdacre »

thank you very much. have you used them. is it a quick fix or does it last?
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1crosscut
Posts: 877
Joined: December 25th, 2010, 7:22 pm
Body Type: 82-A
Model Year: 1929
Location: Lincoln, NE

Re: what is a brake wedge "pill"

Post by 1crosscut »

Quick fix that lasts a long time.
However I have only used one per wheel. Bratton's add states you may need up to 3 per wheel. My thought is if you need more than one then other things need fixed.
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Dave
KimVanOrder
Posts: 753
Joined: August 11th, 2013, 4:25 pm
Body Type: 82-A Platform
Model Year: 1928
Location: Hamilton, Mich.

Re: what is a brake wedge "pill"

Post by KimVanOrder »

I have them in mine also. I made my own. Find the thickness you need and form it with the ball of a ball peen hammer over a hole in a block of steel. Check the length of the rod. If it is worn really short you may wish to get new ones.. Actuator leaver is supposed to be 15 deg. forward. Length of rod and pill will change that..
KVO
Dec. '28 AA
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