Brake linings and new drums
 

Does it make any difference which brake linings are used with the new cast drums. I'm ready to start on my brakes and plan to do new drums all around (unless I can find late '31's for the front). Searching I see some guys favor the woven linings for original drums others say it makes no difference. I have a repop pair of molded linings in the new/old parts pile and would be great to use those.

I'm thinking new drums,Ted's kit and a carefully reconditioning of parts. I need to have this stop on a dime to show up my hot rodding non-mechanical brake believers.

Any thoughts?


The truck build...
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...3458&showall=1

Re: Brake linings and new drums
 

Molded linings work very well on cast drums and are quiet. Woven work well, but squeak. When you do get them lined, You might find there are several choices of molded lining. Use a softer lining for better grip. The harder linings will last a long time, but will not stop as well.
When I asked Mel Gross what he recommended on his drums, he strongly favored molded linings.

Re: Brake linings and new drums
 

Woven linings on the cast drums,set up properly,will lock everything up on the spot.I like the floaters,I have installed some,and have two sets here for my own cars.I have not bothered to install them yet with the cast drums.They're not needed by me,I did some for an old fellow with cast drums because he had problems with pedal pressure.He could lock the brakes up with his cane.I have a 33000 mile roadster with the original stamped drums,with the machining tool marks in the drums,no apparent wear on the tracks,but it has molded linings.It stops great,but not quite as good as the truck with the cast drums and woven linings.The biggest problems I have seen with the floaters is people skipping a step.Molded linings are supposed to be better on the drums,(less wear) but,are we really going to wear them out? One good thing about molded linings,they seem the be stable.It looks like some of the woven linings change size and shape over time.I have the lining equipment,and a few years ago I relined a bunch of shoes and hung them up.I went to use them and the edges are curled up.Nothing the Brake Dokter couldn't cure,but I wonder what will happen if I leave the car sitting for 4 or 5 years.