55-57 Chevy Rear Drum Brake ID

[Scott Tee]

Hi Guys,

Newbie here in North Texas.

I am working on a T-Bucket my Dad owned. I have very little documentation on it so I'm in the process of identifying the components.
Brakes first! I think I have 55-57 Chevy rear drum brakes. They are 11" dia x 1-3/4. But, does anyone have a way I can be sure?
Secondly, assuming they are Chevy brakes, is anyone swapping their drum brakes for disc? I am interested in the drum brake components.

Thanks,

Scott

[Bill Cleveland]

Not sure about your brakes, Scott, but the link below might be a good place to start. If you can ID what rear end you have, it will go a long way toward helping you find brake components for it. (And while I'm at it, welcome aboard!!! )

http://www.trifive.com/forums/showthread.php?t=31068

[Dewey Burton]

If memory serves me..lol...Chevy rears changed in 58 , the 58-64 rear looks like a 9" ford..no bolts on thr back ...the 55-57 should have a bolt on cover on the back to service the gears...you can find stock brake parts at Kantor's , they should be on line ...

[Scott Tee]

Thanks for the info on Chevy differentials. My experience is mostly Ford and the rear looks like a 9" but I'll look a little harder.

From the axle flange, I'm fairly sure the brakes are 55-57 Chevy but I would like to make sure. The assemblies are missing some parts. So, I'm thinking if I can find a donor, I can compare the parts I have and fill in the missing pieces.

The Bucket is in drivable condition so I can at least enjoy easy cruising until I get the kinks worked out.

Thanks,

Scott

[2old2fast]

up to '54 was closed driveline ...'55 - ''64 are removable center section [similar to ford 8&9" ] '65 up are integral carrier[removable backing plate] ...'55 -'64 have some differences in brake sizes , but the basic design is similar. You'll find NEW replacement brake parts to be quite $$$
dave

[Bill Cleveland]

To ID your rear end, check the drivers side for a casting date code:


(Big "P" is for posi)

Then look at the passenger side for a stamped assembly date code (may be very faint and hard to see).
The code will include assembly date & gear ratio.

[Scott Tee]

Thanks Spanky!

My challenge is complicated by the differential being chromed. If the master cylinder is an indicator, most of the casting marks may be ground off.

At least it's better than a regular jigsaw puzzle, I can go out a melt the rear tires when things get too frustrating!

Scott