When we were young and in our prime, a fantastic job we did for you. Now as we are getting older, it sure would be nice to get new shoes. (Brake shoes that is!) We live with them year in and year out, until we can’t really remember how thick the linings should be. Give a good inspection to all parts, and, if in doubt, replace or clean each moving part. If necessary, adjust a bit!
If you have a band-type anti-rollback brake it is a must to keep it clean and adjusted properly. Sets with a reverse rotation chain and cam should be kept in very good condition, for again, the linings can go bad with no warning. This type is held open with friction on the drum. Care should be taken to make sure the band is making contact all around. If the band is not round it could easily fail to work. Use a scrap wrench to reverse the shaft. It doesn’t take much to release service brake and turn.
Have you taken the high-speed coupling apart and given it a good inspection? There are several different types, and all need to be serviced once a year. Look for wear and misalignment. Chain couplings are about the worst for wear, as well as misalignment, but both are easy to spot and fairly easy to replace.
If you have a jack shaft with pillow block bearings, give them a good check up. Low speed coupling: take it apart, clean it throughly, checking wear as well as the alignment. Next the gear box: oil should be changed as the owner’s manual calls for. Some have pumps to oil the top bearings: look at the screens on the intake. These have been known to plug and starve the bearings to the point of failure. Ring and pinion: a constant noise maker, they may be out of alignment! They all make some noise but if properly adjusted it will make a lot of difference.
Bull wheel bearing type lifts should have covers removed for close inspection and cleaning. The brakes on this type should be given the same test that you give an anti-rollback brake.
More can be done to prevent a break- than can be done in a week with the snow and wind turning your hands to icicles during your busy season.
It is easier to prevent than to fix!
