BRAKE MECHANISM

TM 11-3895-209-14

1-11. BRAKE MECHANISM

The axle drive shaft is normally free to rotate, because the brake band is held clear of the brakedrum

by the brake return and brake adjusting springs. When the control lever is operated to the rear

(operate brake position), the idler arm pivots around the shaft and causes the cams around the lever

arm to rotate. As the cams rotate, force is applied to the one end of the brake band and through the

cam stop and the adjustment bolt to the other end of the brake band. This action pulls the ends of the

brake band together, compressing the brake return springs and causing the brake band to close

around the brakedrum. Friction between the brake band and the brakedrum produces the braking

action. When the control lever is released (neutral), the brake return springs expand, forcing the ends

of the brake band apart and releasing the friction between the band and the drum. In the released

condition, the brake band is held clear of the drum by the brake return and the brake adjusting

springs. Centering of the band about the drum is accomplished by adjustment of the anchor bolt and

the two mounting bolts. The adjustment bolt at the bottom of the brake band provides adjustment to

compensate for wear of the brake band.

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