I have a 2002 Honda Rancher. I have bled and added new brake fluid to the front hydraulic brakes. I can't get them to become hard. I know they are drum brakes and the pads are good on the drums. Is there another adjustment that will allow the brakes to have a firm feel when I pull the lever. Currently I pull the lever in almost to the handle bars before they start to grip.

 

I have the same problem on my 05 Rancher with the left brake. I have tried tightening the wing nuts in the back, but either they are waaaay too tight, or they won't bite. Can not seem to find the right spot. Also have a problem with the foot brake sticking down....any ideas?

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: ttaylor

I have a 2002 Honda Rancher. I have bled and added new brake fluid to the front hydraulic brakes. I can't get them to become hard. I know they are drum brakes and the pads are good on the drums. Is there another adjustment that will allow the brakes to have a firm feel when I pull the lever. Currently I pull the lever in almost to the handle bars before they start to grip.</end quote></div>

Are the wheel cylinders working? They will sieze and give you poor braking.

Drums should be snug to put on over the shoes, if so, the adjustment is ok. Clean the drums well and make sure they are not ridged and damaged too causing shoes to not contact them properly. Plus, it the drums are too thin, adjustment might not compensate for it.

 

KMKjr
Thanks for the help. Everything seems to be working but I will clean the drums and check for ridging.


IQ600

The rear brake pedal is a metal to metal contact. Take the pedal off and lube both pieces with an Anti-Seize lubricant.

 

I'll try that out when i get home this weekend. Thanks!