I have 2 B-bears. Both have had brake problems. The brake pads came lose from the brake shoes, causing the brakes to lock up tight.If your not careful you will end up on your head. TRUST ME I KNOW!
I would like to hear from anyone who has had a simular problem to this and a possible fix

 

1602,
I have/had a 98 Big Bear with drum brakes front and rear... Those "seals" are a joke. Atleast mine were anyway... After having the same thing that happened to you happen to me.. I replaced the brake shoes on both ends. Shortly thereafter, it happened again on the front while out on a weekend ride. I winched it on the back of my Scrambler and hopped a ride with my g/f back to the truck. winched the front end up in the air, took the hubs off, and threw the brake shoes as far as I could.. Thats where they lay today... I left the rears on, but last time I attempted to adjust them, the adjuster wingnut broke/stripped..
The most dependable brakes I've ever seen on a Big Bear is a quick.. 5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd, 1st... and a quick slam to reverse if the situation warrants...
But, its gone now (THANK GOD!!) ... its NOT my worry anymore...
Good Luck!!!

 

The brakes on Big Bears are one of Yamaha's worst engineering designs. Think about it... drum brakes on a 500#+ 4WD machine and disc brakes on a 300#- machine. Even though the smaller units are made for racing and require better braking systems, you'd think that they would put the same braking systems on a heavier machine!

I've seen a recommendation on Tech Connection that advises aftermarket brake shoes. They're grooved to allow sand/mud to clear while more shoe surface is allowed to make contact with the drum. I'm still running my stock shoes but need to replace them because even after adjustments (and breaking the cheesy wingnut as well), they still feel a little soft. I assure you that I will be purchasing the aftermarket design.

Also, be sure to pull your drums off once in a while to clean out any mud/grit. This will ensure longer lasting brakes and drums. Even though they're Yamaha's, they're not perfect!

------------------
William Hayes

'96 Yamaha Big Bear SE

 

I had the same problem on a Timberwolf, the rear brake linings came loose from the shoe!! Yamaha needs to bond these linings with a glue that water will not destroy.

 

To everyone who replyed,Thank you. I put aftermarket brakes on. Now I'll see if they hold up

[This message has been edited by t1602 (edited 09-22-1999).]