1960 Brake Drum Lining Measurements

[James S.]

Trying to decipher the book. It says 11 inches inside diameter. Doesn't mention limits of wear that are acceptable. Does anyone know the limits that would call for new drums?

Thanks,

Jim

[John H.]

Re: 1960 Brake Drum Lining Measurements

Trying to decipher the book. It says 11 inches inside diameter. Doesn't mention limits of wear that are acceptable. Does anyone know the limits that would call for new drums?

Thanks,

Jim

Jim -

The '61 Passenger Car Shop Manual (same brakes and drums) calls for 11.060" max diameter when turning the drums. Later in the 60's the max allowable diameter was cast into the O.D. of the drum (DOT requirement), and I believe it was 11.090" (Service replacement drums all have this, originals do not).

[James S.]

Re: 1960 Brake Drum Lining Measurements

Jim -

The '61 Passenger Car Shop Manual (same brakes and drums) calls for 11.060" max diameter when turning the drums. Later in the 60's the max allowable diameter was cast into the O.D. of the drum (DOT requirement), and I believe it was 11.090" (Service replacement drums all have this, originals do not).

Wow! Thanks John.

I believe before this car went to the woods to sit for ten years, the General must have had fresh brakes installed because the drums show zero wear. I still have the GM shoes that I removed and they are like new albeit soaked with brake fluid; I installed new shoes but wanted to checked the drums to ensure all were within factory specs. This car is amazing. The only bulb that was bad was a license plate bulb and that works now. Every light works. Turn signals all work. Only electrical items that need attention are the radio, and the clock.

Jim