I have what I think are '32-'38 rear hubs, they measure 3.182 id in the bearing surface. I want to use these on my '39 Columbia in my T with juice brakes. I've searched but can't find if I can use mechanical hubs and drums with juice brakes. Also I am assuming if I can I dont need the wire wheel supports with these? Thanks in advance, David.
1932-1934 brake shoes are 1.5" wide and so is the corresponding shoe surface on the drums. Those drums will not work with '39-'48 Ford hydraulic brakes. In 1935 Ford increased the width of the brake shoes to 1.75", the same width as '39-'48 hydraulic shoes. Rear hubs/drums from 1935 - 1938 (remaining years of mechanical brakes) are compatible with '39-'48 Ford hydraulic brakes. 1935 is the only year of early drum that used 1.75" shoes and had the 5 x 5.5" bolt pattern with the stepped mounting surface for wire wheels. 1935 and 1936 front brake drums are NOT compatible with '39-'48 Ford hydraulic brakes because the bearings in the hub are offset farther out relative to the shoe surface and therefor won't mate up correctly with the shoes and backing plates.
32 to 35 are 5 on 5.5" with wire wheel supports cast in. 36-39 are wide 5. I'm guessing you have 32-35 hubs/drums. 32-34 have been used with hydraulics, but it isn't strictly correct and rubbing of the side of the shoe against the drum will occur. That is because the shoes are 1.75" wide and the drums are designed for 1.5" shoes. I can't say for sure, but I have an idea that 35 drums may work better, but it is only a hunch, someone would have to confirm or refute. You would do better to get 40-48 hubs and drums. Mart. Edit: I was typing at the same time as Dennis, he is the guy that knows.
As Dennis said, this is not necessarily true. 35-38 rear and 37-38 front mechanical drums can be used with hydraulic brakes. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
Thanks for the replies, my drums are 1 1/2. I guess I'll add rear drums and hubs to my swap meet wish list.
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