Due to the rotational forces applied to the torsion arm suspension some
squat during braking is normal. Rear squatting will be more pronounced when
using the handbrake only. The rate of squat is controlled by the shock
absorbers. There is also a rear proportioning valve that helps prevent rear
wheel lock up. While adjustments are critical differences in braking force
from side to side usually indicate something else is wrong besides
adjustment.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Courtney Hook
Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2012 2:56 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Can a rear brake pull down one side of a 77 bus as you stop???

So I've gone through my front brakes on my 77 Westy  completely and the bus
still squats down on the passenger side when braking, even to the point the
front wheel will skid a bit if I really push on the pedal. The calipers are
not stuck, the tire pressure is equal. It all appears to be working
properly. One thing I noticed however, is the REAR brake on that side seems
to do much of the work when I put the emergency brake on. When I release the
brake, the bus will actually come up on that side and return to a level keel
right to left as I move slowly. So the question is:

Can a rear brake that is mis-adjusted like mine seems to be (manual
adjustment rear brakes on a 77) cause this problem I'm having with braking
in general? Of course I'm going to adjust it anyway, but just wondering what
the experienced mechanics on the list think?? If that's not it, then it's
all new calipers, brake hoses, hard lines I guess on the front. Seems like a
waste though to me. ????? Of course this has to be safe, can't pretend it's
all ok when something is not.
Courtney