Cast Drums versus Steel Drums

[Canton_Model_A's]

I have a bit of an issue. I am deciding on whether to use the new Cast Iron drums over the steel ones my '29 currently has on her. What are the Pros/Cons and what would I have to do to put the Cast ones onto her?

Any advice would be great!

 

[Bruce of MN]

You would want to go through the whole brake system, new linings, centering, arcing, etc. After that, you’ll want to convert your modern car to mechanicals!

 

[Canton_Model_A's]

I already have done all the brakes, with new plates, shows, and all associated hardware.

 

[Y-Blockhead]

I have a bit of an issue. I am deciding on whether to use the new Cast Iron drums over the steel ones my '29 currently has on her. What are the Pros/Cons and what would I have to do to put the Cast ones onto her?

Any advice would be great!

Pros; Your car will stop much better, No brake fade. Cons; None

 

[Bob Bidonde]

Go Cast Iron For Safety!

 

[P.S.]

This should help answer some of your questions- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URO_jkdCIlc

 

[WHN]

If you can lock them up with your steel drums and you have already gone over the whole system. I would leave them alone for now.

Next brake job you can make the change.

I have always used the steel drums. Never had a problem and it’s been over 60 years of driving Model A’s.

Enjoy your car.

 

[nkaminar]

The only reason to use the original steel drums is if you are going to show the car and not drive it. That means taking it to the shows in a trailer and just running it enough to get to your assigned spot.

 

[Dino's A]

And with Cast iron brakes goes the name Randy Gross.

 

[Canton_Model_A's]

P.S. thank you for posting that link. I think I saw it before. Now the real fun, sourcing all the parts needed for the cast drums versus the steel ones. Glad the Credit Card is handy

 

[Bob C]

P.S. thank you for posting that link. I think I saw it before. Now the real fun, sourcing all the parts needed for the cast drums versus the steel ones. Glad the Credit Card is handy

Just send your hubs and drums to Randy Gross and they will come back ready to install.

 

[P.S.]

Randy Gross is your man. Absolutely wonderful guy and products.

 

[Dick M]

Randy Gross
Brake Drums, Brake Shoes, Wheel Hubs, and Steering Box rebuild
714-292-8660
melmodela@aol.com

You will not find a better vendor for all of the above.

 

[Dick Carne]

One additional thought. If you should decide to use cast iron drums, I would also strongly recommend that you also convert to bonded brake shoe linings - otherwise the woven linings will soon glaze over and become ineffective. Good luck going forward.