UK-POLOS.NET - THE VW Polo Forum

Hi guys,

My girlfriends 1.4 6n has a bit of a problem with the brakes. Basically, they seemed to get worse after I changed the rear wheel bearings. I was very careful not to get grease or oil on the shoes or inside of the drum and I made sure I cleaned everything with brake cleaner too. Is it possible I didn't reassemble it properly? This is the first time I've ever dealt with drums as all my cars have had discs all round.

Also, the brakes don't feel spongy, the discs, pads and shoes still have enough life left not to effect it.

Any ideas or advice would be brillo guys.

Thanks!!

There's an "automatic" adjuster - a wedge that drops down as the brakes are applied to bring the shoes to a small distance from the drum to compensate for wear. (possibly not the best explanation, but you should get the idea!)

With a screwdriver through a wheel bolt hole, force it downwards. (once everything's fully assembled) It's spring loaded, but they stick really easily.

Diagram:


(left centre - "adjuster wedge")

That's likely to be the root of your troubles!