Non-self energizing backing plates conversion.

I don't see how it could be done- you need the anchor pin up top where the wheel cylinder used to be.
 
I don't understand the question. Are you trying to convert mechanicals (which are non self energizing) to Bendix type brakes or are you trying to convert '39 to '48 Lockeed type brakes (which are also non self energizing) to Bendix type brakes?

Charlie Stephens
 
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I have a kit from PSI INdustries that uses 57-64 chevy front drums,backing plates and hubs on 37-41 spindles. I used it on my last 40 sucessfully. I'll try to dig up some pictures and post them today. I used 65 station wagon pieces last time, because they are wider and I haven't been able to find these pieces yet .
 
here are a few pictures of the kit I posted about. I remade these adapters out of steel because of the tapped blind holes. I didn't trust the fine thread in aluminum. There is also an inner wheel bearing adapter that is like the one used in economy chevy disc brake conversions. The spindle has to have the outer bearing surface extended about 3/8", the spindle nut threads moved an equal amount and the spindle shortened so the dust cap will fit on the hub. This kit uses the chevy hubs. I've often wondered what it would take to keep the ford hubs. If anyone is interested in any more info, pm me http://i651.photobucket.com/albums/...assis/barn uploads/psi brake kit/DSCF0031.jpg
http://i651.photobucket.com/albums/...assis/barn uploads/psi brake kit/DSCF0032.jpg
http://i651.photobucket.com/albums/...assis/barn uploads/psi brake kit/DSCF0033.jpg
 
Dave@theshore said:
Anyone converted these to save the look and have modern brakes?
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As poster before, could you please tell us what you are working on. Are you wanting to convert 39-48 Ford backing plates to self energizing or are you wanting to convert mechanical brakes to self energizing and if so, what year?

If you want to convert 39-48 ford hydraulic brakes to self energizing, you could install Lincoln Backing Plates with esentially no modification (depending on the year of your spindels).

There are also some self energizing up-grades available for some of the mechanical brakes if that is the way you are trying to go.

Let us know what you are working with and we may be able to help.

Chris
 
Dave,

We are still waiting for clarification of your question. One thought to keep in mind is that there are proven ways to convert an early Ford to hydraulic brakes that have withstood the test of time and miles. One way is to transplant the entire system from master cylinder to brake drum from a 1940-48 Ford. If you want self energizing, use the Lincoln backing plates (expensive but now available as a repro). If you want to get creative with your brakes please let us know when you will be driving your car so we can stay off of the road.

Charlie Stephens
 
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There was a thread on the HAMB where a guy converted either 39/40 or 46/48 backing plates to self energizing brakes. But why not buy the repro Lincoln style backing plates with 1.75 inch shoes. They are a bolt on on the rear and need some minor grinding on the spindles to work with the 37/40 front spindles and they use the stock drums. I sell the MT products line and have done this conversion several times.
 
I'm trying to convert non selfenergizing hydraulics to selferergizing using the original non selfenerg. backing plates for their looks and Buick drums. All your replys exceded my expectations & obviously I wasn't specific enough with my question. I'm trying to get a "Look" on my 28 2dr lowboy. I'm going to look for the thread that did this as Krylon32 mentioned. Also certainly not going to do anything unsafe. Thanx, Dave
 
Dave@theshore said:
I'm trying to convert non selfenergizing hydraulics to selferergizing using the original non selfenerg. backing plates for their looks and Buick drums. All your replys exceded my expectations & obviously I wasn't specific enough with my question. I'm trying to get a "Look" on my 28 2dr lowboy. I'm going to look for the thread that did this as Krylon32 mentioned. Also certainly not going to do anything unsafe. Thanx, Dave
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Dave,

To me the "look" would be the Lincoln backing plates.

Charlie Stephens
 
Possibly with some surgery/grafting at the bottom of the backing plates to fit adjusters & an access adjusting slot??????
 
Dave@theshore said:
Possibly with some surgery/grafting at the bottom of the backing plates to fit adjusters & an access adjusting slot??????
Click to expand...

It is not the adjusting slot area that is the problem. You have to rework the location of the wheel cylinders to provide for a anchor pin at the top.
I am sure with enough time and work, anything can be done.

Lincoln backing plates will give you the vintage look and that is exactly what was used in the "Old Days" when the guys wanted better brakes. Original Lincoln Brakes can still be found and Reproductions are available. I would rather take the time to find Original Lincoln Backing Plates as the Reproductions have some design issues. I have used both.

My thoughts on the subject.

Chris
 
ANDY on the HAMB has done this. Also, BASS of BASS CUSTOMS on the HAMB was gearign-up to convert these by the millions, or so, on a swap-out basis of the backing plates. DD
 
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