How can you tell when your brakes are worn? I have always noticed my 82's brakes seem a bit worn, but how can i tell?

Thanks in advance.

 

you can hear it.

 

Pulling off the wheels and looking is the best way. If you wait until you hear something it might already be too late...

 

Take the wheel off and look at the lining (friction material) of the brake pads and shoes.

Minimum on front pads is 2mm of lining remaining.
Minimum on shoes (rear brakes) is 1mm of lining.

 

The best way to check the drums (and the discs for that matter) is to pull the tire and drums off and inspect them. For the discs, you can also just listen for the high pitched squeal/squeak. just make sure you notice this high pitched squeal/squeak before you notice a metal on metal grinding noise, cuz that is bad news

 

Okay- she's not making noises. When the rain/hail lets up, I'll pull the tire and check