So I got the chance to take a look at it in the weekend.

I eliminated the disk brake pretty quickly as being the cause of the problem, i.e. removed the caliper and tested.

Sure enough if i tightened the wheel up, it would stick, and you could hear rubbing.

There is a sort of ridge that runs around the back plate and slots into a groove running around the drum. That shows signs of scratching so I got the sandpaper out and removed the rust.

I think that was the cause of the scratching noise.

Brake still stuck on, even after backing it off totally.

My friend..... "See that lug there, it was in the wrong hole".

(There is a guide lug which means that the drum can only be put on in two positions, one more correct than the other)

Me....... "let's try it how it was".

Problem solved, although not in the most scientific way it has to be said.

My synopsis? I must have done something wierd to the handbrake by having the drum on incorrectly, and for some reason the car has grown to like it that way.

"Wierd Brake Problem" indeed.

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306D 1975 (camper) - rusting away
W116 450 SEL 1975 - sold
W114 long wheelbase ambulance, 3 litre diesel 1974

VW Golf 1 convertable - midlife crisis item
VW T4 van - support vehicle