Steer brake question

Possibly the backing plate (Spider assembly) is not mounted "square" to the axle spindle (or got bent). Maybe brake shoes are not machined correctly or lining was riveted to the shoes incorrectly (out of alignment).

Does the other side look better?

Also looks like shoes are not adjusted correctly (there's a larger gap between lining and drum then I would expect to see)

 

Cams aren't bent are they? Position looks consistent on the anchor pin ends, looks like the issue is on the cam end.

 

I see that a lot with trailer brakes, usually indicates (for trailers anyway) that the S-cams bushings are worn out, the Drums are worn/belled out, and the shoe pivot pins need replaced.

There’s a chance you could remove the pads and switch positions to correct them back into the drum. This could be temporary or permanent.

Usually when i see it the pads are close enough for replacement so I can’t say for sure.

And this could be completely different for steer brakes. They are basically the same so it stands to reason it would be the same.

 

If the spiders bent, the shoes will be noticeably crooked in relation to drum, My trailer had the same issue, I thought spider was bent, or cam bushings bad, maybe. New shoes now, no more problem. I think the old ones were a bit wider, for some reason, although I replaced withsame part #s. Maybe springs were weak,really don’t know. It’s strange. Are your drums wore in? I’d adjust them good, and keep an eye on them. Bent spider is all but impossible to straighten. No one wants to touch that one, especially with heat. Usually they weld on a new one. Axle surgeon does them. $$$$$

 

Looks like new brakes? I see that alot with cheaper reman pads, the cores dont seem consitent. I say run them, havent ever seen an issue from it.