Can I give my take on it? Use it if you can, if not, don't get choked up about it.
Rear Brake upgrade for pre 68 Ford 9" rears.
by John Wilkerson 6/04
I just completed this upgrade on my 66 F100, I had already done the disc brakes for the front. My rear drums are now size correct with the power disc setup again.
First; Ford increased the size of the rear brakes by 1/2" in 1968. Pre 73 9" rears are the same width from 57 to 72, and were increased in width in 73 to track the front. Note years that parts can be used.
Parts needed:
1- axles from a 68-72 Ford truck 9" The wheel bearing does not set as deep on the axle, even though it is the same length. It does not extent as deep into the center chunk.
2- backing plates, shoes, and drums for 68-85 Ford truck 9"
Must do:
1- existing hand brake cable must be removed at backing plate and retained, lengths can be different.
2- backing plate has to be swapped. Outer rim lip is shallower where it goes into the drum.
3- Might be a good time to replace wheel cylinders, and brake lines. Lines tent to break before unscrewing.
General work:
Remove wheel, drum, and all brake parts, release hand or park brake cable, brake line, pull axle, and backing plate.
Install new backing plate, wheel cylinder, brake lines, reconnect parking brake cable, new shoes and parts, insert axle, (a good time for new axle seals) new drums and adjust brakes, fill master cylinder and bleed brake lines.
John
