Re: [Amc-list] Brake rebuild kit for 1965 American 330 Sedan?

[Matt Haas <mhaas@xxxxxxx>]

Bruce,

Pull one of the drums (rear drums are held on with three screws). If the 
brakes look like Figure E on 
http://www.mattsoldcars.com/RestoreAmerican/ebrake-pics.shtml, it has 
Bendix brakes and uses a cable type self adjuster (the cable may be 
broken, that is a common problem with older cars but parts are easily 
available). The other brake type was made by Wagner and it uses rods and 
a bell crank to adjust the brakes instead of a cable. Drums are the same 
for both types of brakes but everything else is different.

If it has Bendix type brakes, parts are readily available but don't 
expect anyone to stock them. Hardware for Wagner brakes is harder to 
find (shoes and wheel cylinders are readily available). Take a look at 
http://www.mattsoldcars.com/1967american/brakeordeal.shtml for parts 
sources.

When you fix the brakes, you should replace the wheel cylinders, brake 
hoses, shoes, hardware (hold down and return springs), and any obviously 
worn or broken self-adjuster parts. If the car has Bendix brakes, 
replace the self-adjuster cables. Make sure that you lubricate the self 
adjuster jack screws and all of the brake shoe to backing plate contact 
points and that you clean the backing plate and address any rough areas 
where the shoes contact them so the shoes can move easily.

Also, make sure you drain the gas tank (replace the fuel hoses while 
you're at it) and put a couple of gallons of fresh gas in it. Modern gas 
goes bad quickly and forms a very sticky goo that can cause engine 
damage. It is also a good idea to have the tank cleaned and sealed. 
Radiator shops can do this for you (it will cost around $100) or you can 
buy kits from placed like Eastwood to do the work yourself.

Matt

Bruce Griffis wrote:
> Hey all - I picked up a '65 Rambler American 330 four door sedan, and need
> to sort out the brakes fairly quick! The owner (it's a one-owner car) was
> driving it, and it pulled hard to the right. She parked it 4 years ago, and
> now it's time to fix it. While checking the brakes, I hit the pedal and my
> foot went to the floor (the car was parked). So - how do I determine what
> brakes it has? It does not have power assist brakes, just manual. The fact
> that it pulled hard to the right tells me I need to check the wheel
> cylinders. The fact that my foot went to the floor tells me I have more than
> that to think about!
> 
> It's a basic 330 - no power steering, no power brakes, a simple three-on-the
> tree, and I'm guessing a 195.6 cubic inch OHV. (how do I double check the
> engine?)
> 
> Also - it will need radiator hoses, probably a thermostat, and a fan belt.
> Anyone have NAPA part numbers?
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-- 
mhaas@xxxxxxx
Cincinnati, OH
http://www.mattsoldcars.com
1967 Rambler American wagon
1968 Rambler American sedan
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