Abstract: The present invention is a fail safe motor brake for use with relatively large industrial motors, and particularly electric hoist motors as used with large overhead industrial cranes. The present brake includes an actuation linkage which results in relatively little change in the initial height or "air gap" of the solenoid plunger or armature, as the brake linings wear. The limited change in the air gap is due to a mechanical stop which is built into the adjustment and actuation linkage, as well as the clamping pressure provided by the spring arrangement which serves to actuate the brakes. The solenoid of the present brake is offset from the plane of the brake shoes, thus allowing removal and replacement of one or both shoes without need to remove the solenoid. This allows the brake shoes to be removed without need to readjust the actuation linkage. The present motor brake provides excellent performance throughout the life of the brake linings, without need to adjust the actuation linkage during this period.