The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Huck brakes

Hi,

Are there any special tools needed to do a brake job on a 41 Chevy with huck brakes?

Jeff

I used everyday stuff out of my toolbox. A third hand is useful in pulling the return spring across to both shoes.

not really.

You'll need a slotted screwdriver, a hammer, and a pair of vice-grips.

If you're putting in new wheel cylinders, then you'll need a ratchet or wrenches.

I can't remember what size bolt head are on those but I think it's 7/16" or 1/2".

The tubing flare nut size is 7/16" (use a tubing wrench), and you'll need a 5/8" open-ended wrench for the hoses.

I use my knee on one shoe, and the vice-grips to stretch the spring out. I've got a pair of spring pliers and they're just about worthless for Huck Brakes.

The conical springs with the J hooks on the front wheels can be kind of tricky, too. Vice-grips make a difference there, too.

You will need something to keep the cylinders from coming apart when the shoes are off. Tie wrap does a pretty good job.

I usually leave the rubber bands on them until I've got the springs installed, and then cut them off.