Abstract: An arrangement for automatically engaging and disengaging a brake on rotating apparatus comprising a rotatable brake drum and a pair of brake shoes pivotally mounted for engagement with the drum. Free ends of the brake shoes are urged together by spring forces bringing the brake shoes into braking engagement with the drum. A brake release mechanisms includes a pivoted release member with a cone-shaped stud slidably connected thereto. The brake shoes are disengaged by rotating the release member which forces the stud between the brake shoe free ends and separates the brake shoes from the drum. The conical stud and its slidable connection to the pivoted release member simplifies assembly and maintenance of the arrangement.