1954 front brake cover plate

[Brad M]

The front brake cover plate on my 1954 Model 20 has always sat a bit proud of the drum since I bought the bike. Having finally got around to looking at it, I have found that the inner nut can't be screwed in far enought to fit the spacer (017222) to sit 1/16" proud of the edge of the drum (as instructed by manual). In fact the inner nut sits a bit proud of the drum on its own.
What I can do is get rid of the spacer and tighten the outer nut directly against the inner nut. It seems to work well but I am a bit nervous incase something catastrophic happens when I try to use the brake in normal riding.
I have seen a couple of old threads that refer to this same problem but it's not clear what anyone else has done. I understand that 1954 was a one-off design for the front brake.
I would be grateful for any thoughts.

[dave16mct]

There shouldn't be a spacer there, only a washer. You're doing the right thing to adjust the nut then tighten the outer against it sandwiching the plate in the right place. You must have a washer which is too thick.
Dave.

[Brad M]

Thanks Dave - much appreciated.
Brad