Folks, I have a 55.1 3100 and I purchased a parking brake control rod from The Truck Shop. It came with a spring (~7 in long) and spring extender(~10 in long), which is good because I didn’t have those. The spring is a beast and I can hardly extend it at all with my hands/arms. Anyway when I got this truck the seller said it had been in an accident and he replaced the chassis. I have no idea if the chassis is a 55 or if it even matters. On to my problem/question. When I go to install the spring & extender there are no holes that seem appropriate. I’m afraid to try to extend this spring a couple of inches because I’m afraid it will rip the spring tab off the control rod. I can drill a new hole but can anyone describe for me how much tension should be on the spring with the parking brake in the released position? My gut says just barely enough to get the spring /extender installed because the spring is so strong
MarkWH , do you have the Factory assembly manual? If so, take a look at Sect 5 , sheet 3.04 . It applies to both the 3100 and 3600 Models. Here's pics, hopefully will help. Spring does not appear to be under much tension when parking brake is released. Check cross shaft position. Ron
Last edited by Dusty53; 05/26/20227:10 PM.
Ron - - Dusty53 1954 Chevy 3604 In the Gallery Forum "You can't dance with the Devil and then wonder why you're still in Hell." "They will forget what you've said, and they will forget what you have done but they will never forget the way you made them feel."
Ronnie, Thanks for the response. I have the manual and I believe sect 5, sheet 3.00 applies to a left drive 3100. The page you referenced is for right hand drive with a hand-brake. However, I agree with you that the spring should have only enough tension (when released) to keep the parts from rattling around. I’ll drill a hole for the extender that gets me there. Have a good holiday weekend.
Ronnie, Thanks for the response. I have the manual and I believe sect 5, sheet 3.00 applies to a left drive 3100. The page you referenced is for right hand drive with a hand-brake. However, I agree with you that the spring should have only enough tension (when released) to keep the parts from rattling around. I’ll drill a hole for the extender that gets me there. Have a good holiday weekend.
Mark
Oh darned, you are correct. I got into too big a hurry and ended up being zero help regarding the FAM. Anyway, the photo of my 1954 3604 should represent the parking brake spring at rest. Let me know if you need specific pics of the parking brake set-up. You have a good weekend as well.
Last edited by Dusty53; 05/27/20223:43 AM.
Ron - - Dusty53 1954 Chevy 3604 In the Gallery Forum "You can't dance with the Devil and then wonder why you're still in Hell." "They will forget what you've said, and they will forget what you have done but they will never forget the way you made them feel."
