Can someone tell me what I need in order to update my 1953 Ford Brakes to self-adjusting like trucks used in the 60's? I don't know which year of parts I need for sure. Thanks
FYI This info pertains to F-1 & F-100 brakes as this dummy didn't read the OP's question correctly. H2540 & H2541 self-adjuster repair kits and a H7144 hardware kit. The shoe retainer should be trimmed to clear the forward spring. The retainer in the picture is a factory retainer; but easy to notch the original to clear.
Good point there. Things to get or consider: Correct kit for the diameter of the brakes. This Rock Auto link shows part numbers for 11x2 kits if it works right. These for a 64 F100. 1964 FORD F-100 4.8L 292cid V8 Drum Brake Self Adjuster Repair Kit | RockAuto The shoes have to have the extra and correct holes for the self adjusters. The 228 shoes fit both 53 and 64. I'm not sure that manufactures even sell shoes that aren't designed for self adusters now as the main difference is the size of the hole that the piece the cable rides around is held in with the return spring. I think that they made that hole a little larger when they came out with self adjusters but it shouldn't be an issue. The one thing with Ford self adjusters is that the hook on the aduster arm where it hooks into the shoe isn't all that strong if you man handle it when installing the adjuster and spring.
Good idea to make an extra adjuster hole in the left backing plate. If the plates are off; you can line them up back to back and use a transfer punch to locate the slot.
Fantastic information! I also believe you need to notch the grease cup/catch because of the cable if you are running them
Not sure if '53 brakes are same as '50. On my '50 Ford sedan, I used '69 Ford Torino brakes (shoes and hardware) on all 4 corners. I may have widened the slot for the rod coming out of wheel cylinders to accommodate the '69 shoes. No other modifications and didn't bother about adjusting slot. After all they are self adjusting. Get shoes close while installing and back up a few times. 80k miles and have never had to adjust them and no problems. Ron
Oh no; for some reason I assumed you were talking about F-100 brakes as that is the usual question. Passenger car brakes are 10" and you will need to use the appropriate hardware. @55 Ford Gasser mentioned '69 Torino which used 10" brakes. H2515 & H2514 self-adjuster kits and H-7154 hardware kit. Probably have to match up the hold-down pins to be sure on the length. Again, sorry on the misunderstanding.
I have '66 Ford Galaxie backing plates, shoes, and drums with self adjusters on my '55 with Ford 9". 11 1/32 x 2 1/4.
I kept mine manual adjust , gives me a reason to raise it off the ground , grease , adjust the brakes once of before spring starts .
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