I've used the regular brakes for that old open diff traction trick, but never thought to use the parking brake. That's a great idea, I'd imagine it's easier to concentrate on getting freed up without having to keep your foot on the brake pedal.
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That might not be a bad idea Bugdewde. The 4 wheel disc appeals to me. I suppose I would probably have to slide the axles out to get the stock backing plates off. I know nothing is ever easy lolJohn, I agree..... Modern cars can really stop well. That's why I have to increase my following distance a great deal when in the Suburban. Or the old Vega, or the Jeep .... Seems the only thing I have that brakes well is the old '91 Miata. Lol.
I've got new calipers/pads & rotors awaiting install, but still not liking the rear drum setup .... anticipating the same ol' non self-adjusting issues as my previous '99 (which also had a non-operating parking brake).
Racer X , you should get a good picture of the rear brake mechanism on that work truck to see how it's configured or if it's been modified. If it works, it works...., lol.
John, I'm liking the idea of your 4 wheel disc brakes more and more.
....... That's a great idea, I'd imagine it's easier to concentrate on getting freed up without having to keep your foot on the brake pedal.
I am many decades old......True 'dat ......
We used to use them on open diff Jeeps and air-cooled VW Bajas & Rail Buggies to transfer torque to the non-spinning wheel ..... aka poor man's locker.
When one wheel in mud spins, progressively engage the parking brake to put resistance on the spin. That resistance is then transferred to the other axle shaft via the open diff. Takes some skill, but will get you unstuck if one wheel is on dry ground. The dreaded open diff CAN work for you, if you know how to use it.
That would be a good use of the antiquated term "Emergency Brake" or in this case "Emergency Locker" ... Lol.
John, yes I prefer the correct term "Parking Brake". That's why the release handle & the dash light has a "P" (for Park) surrounded by brake shoes. Lol.
..... Or maybe it's for P*ssies. .... Lol.
(Like I said, I like the sarcasm).
I may be wrong, but I don't think it's been called an emergency brake for a decade or two.