Thoughts on brake drums ?

We usually buy one @ a time, but run 51 power units and 33 trailers along with other stuff . Here is my price @ NAPA.

 

Exactly. It isn't about pinching pennies and being to cheap or broke to fix what needs fixing. But there is no reason to change them if they are not out of spec or close to being out of spec.

 

You guys do what you want, but I cant get 2 linings out of a set drums . This is why I replace it all. Last set drums I bought at peterbilt and were $89 . Big deal. 4 drums = $400. Every 4-5 years is nothing.

 

Id look into why you aren't getting two full sets of linings out of a drum. Because you should be able to no problem.

 

Brakes are something I’ve spent a lot of time learning about in the 15 years I’ve dealt with HD class 8 brakes. I started from installing the least expensive shoe and drum (only when “needed”). I allowed S-cams to “pass” inspection just because the customer didn’t want to pay for them.
Now I realize the liability behind the most important and powerful part of a truck. (Think about it, 500hp to get 80,000 to 70 in what @1/4 or 1/2 mile, but has to be able to stop the same weight in 350 ft.)

The trucks I’m working on know are placarded. I don’t mess around. I’ve found the best policy is to instal brakes in a manner to expect the longest life possible. I buy the hardest and most aggressive shoes possible, and the least expensive drum possible. Every brake part is check and works at every shoe replacement every brake service every thing is checked (from replacing the pivot pin bushings (honing to fit if needed), to confirming the main return spring is center, rotating the s-cams at minimum, remove and cleaning slack adjusters and checking operation, etc etc.)

it all takes time, but it I haven’t had a brake cam over, my shoes mostly wear even, and the DOT hasn’t given a write up on my brakes in 10 yrs. The drivers of my part of the fleet know the brakes will be there when they are needed. (Even the brake abusers can rely on them)

I’ve done enough brake jobs in my life that I don’t need to do any more than are needed. So when I am replacing brakes, Any step is taken to extend the life of brakes.

So to answer the question, if you work your parts man over, or price around, I’ve seen the standard made in USA (economy line) drums for as little as $60. I pay $64 for the shoes. I realize I’m getting a fleet and quantity discount. (but that will give you an idea of when they’ve actually dropped the price as far as they can!!). You’ve got a better chance of winning the powerball than The chance the shop you go to will put their best tech on a just a brake job. Do you think he’ll measure the drums??

Just plan ahead and replace the drums.

But that’s just my opinion.

 

Used to get them done 90$ a wheel, shoes, drums,spring kits, I think the price is 160$ now.Venezia, Rt 33, Farmingdale, NJ, they also stock most brake parts for most trucks, good people.

 

I dont have to look into anything.....

I'm happy to replace it all every 4-5 years. No big deal. To much of a liability now a days to try and squeeze every last mile out of a set $89 drums.
Same with brake pots. I replace all 4 as soon as 1 goes. Because you know the other 3 aren't far behind. I like doing repairs on my time in my warm shop. Not along the side road at midnight in the rain because I wanted to get a extra 6 months out of those brake pots.

 

If Im replacing shoes due to a failed wheel seal, the old drum goes back on as long as its in spec.
If im replaced shoes for being worn out, I dont even bother measuring the drum. Put a new one on. Its cheap, you are in there already, and why not start out fresh with all new componets.
Im with @swaan 100%

 

You said they have 700k miles on them right? If you aren't the original owner of the truck chances are that's 2 sets of shoes. So replacing them now is probably a good idea to start fresh.