I have been able to find some info about this issue. My 1999 Recon had pretty decent braking when I got it. After a ride bout a month ago they were pretty much ineffective. I replaced the shoes, wheel cylinders, bled the system, rebuilt the master cylinder, properly adjusted the spacing. Is it possible the drums are too far out of spec.? I understand its a crappy system to begin with. It does brake now, just not very effective, but better than it was. Im also wondering if the master cylinder could be out of tolerance enough the fluid id leaking back past the primary cup. Seems simple but I cant seem to solve it. Any help would be great. Thanks

 

I agree that they are crappy even when working as designed. Your guesses are good ones and probably as good as anyones. If you have a manual, it should say what the inside diameter of the drums should be. Is the fluid topped as far as possible? When you adjust them, do you keep hitting the brake and then readjust until you just can't get anymore out of the adjustment? Mine drag slightly after a good adjustment.

 

Although they may be a crappy design, they do work great if maintained.
Here are specs for 2005-2009 Recon brakes.....don't see why the 99 would be much different.
Hope this helps.