[vintovka]

I still think the 80's GM brake set up may be the best. Has worked for me for almost 24 year and just used it again 5 minutes ago. Reshaping the brake arm is nice but optional. IIRC it was an easy bolt in deal and free as well. Again the only issue i had was adding the additional return spring. The small AD cabs limit space to point it seems like the only option other than an electric which i do not trust. Speaking of which, the original brake in my 54 was worn and unreliable. Not sure of others experiences but mine often slipped even when carefully set leading to some real problems -some of which were both costly and dangerous.