Brake switch spring question

[viclioce]

If I adjust the brakes to work, they pull the spring for the front brake switch too tightly, as shown below. If I set the arm so that the Spring is pulled gently, then the brakes don’t grab properly.

Is it the wrong spring length, or is it an indicator that the front brakes are too worn? Don’t know what the thickness of the pad on the shoe should be. Victor

[Bullfrog]

These photos were taken reaching around or under my CW of a friend's RT99. I can't seem to do any better than this right now on the photos. While I'm sure the springs are stock - the routing of that rear brake wire is wayeeeee wrong. I also can't tell you whether or not everything works as it should . . . though I THINK (<-- that's a BIG "I think") the brake switch adjustment is probably OK.

Keep in mind that the brake switch mount holes are elongated to allow adjustment.

Hope this helps.
Ed

[viclioce]

Thanks. Only having issue with the front. Just need to adjust some of the pull out. Using the same spring. Victor

[matt glascock]

Victor, that spring looks shorter and of heavier gauge wire than mine. Its under tension at rest as well. Let me check my parts stash for something that might work better. I'll get back to you tomorrow on that.

[dirty_rat]

You can also always remove and rotate the brake arm a little to get it closer to the brake switch.

[viclioce]

thanks guys. I may have an older spring which may not be as stiff as the new one. The new one was supposed to be a correct replacement. I’ll try switching things out!

Matt, if you find a spare & want to send it to me I’ll graciously accept it. This new spring will be replaced with a used one I got for the Green Toad, so I’ll still need another, thanks! Victor

[matt glascock]

I have one for you. On the house. Should be able to get it in the mail yet this week if work will cooperate with me!!

[viclioce]

Thank you Matt! I graciously accept! Do you have my postal address? I PM’d my mailing address to you! Victor

[matt glascock]

I have your address Victor. I mailed it from work so it will bounce around there fr a day of so then be on the way.

[viclioce]

I got it to work! How? Just a little bit of common sense.

I remembered Matt saying it looked like a heavier gauge spring than his OEM spring. So I removed the spring, grabbed it with a couple of pairs of pliers, and just stretched it out a little bit.

Turned the key on & presto, tail light only! Stepped on the rear brake pedal, and, DING! Brake light. Foot off, back to one filament. Grabbed the front brake lever & squeezed. DING! Brake light!

Funny how the little successes can make you so happy! Victor

[matt glascock]

Cool. Now you'll have a spare

[viclioce]

Yes I will! I can use it on the Model 03 or the Ace!!! Victor