C2 METALIC BRAKES J65

[Jim W.]

I have original sintered metalic linings on my low milage 64 conv. There was a lot of build up of brake dust between the sections and bottom of the drum. At this time I was just inspecting, documenting, and taking pics. I was wandering if they have any composition of asbestos on this type lining as a safety precaution when I clean and remove at a later date. They seem to have a graphite type substance built in also. Was curious what they are made of. Also when I do take apart to clean up, if I spray brake cleaner on the entire assembly first , wont it remove the red and green paint on the springs ? I'd like to avoid this. This is my first time at messing with brakes so any input is appreciated.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 METALIC BRAKES J65

Jim------

I can't say for absolute certainty, but I feel very confident that some asbestos was used in the metallic brake shoes. It was likely a lower amount than standard shoes, but there nevertheless. In any event, you should proceed under the assumption that asbestos was used and avoid all conditions which might cause inhalation of any of the dust. Among other things, while doing any cleaning, make sure that you wear a mask that that will trap asbestos fibers.

As far as the brake springs go, the paint on them is pretty durable. I don't think that brake cleaners of the type available today will harm them. However, if you want to be even safer, just clean them in a petroleum solvent. You may even be able to clean them up with soap and hot water. During restoration of original parts, there is always a "cardinal rule" to follow: ALWAYS use the least aggressive and least likely to damage cleaning methods first and progress only as necessary.

[Dick W.]

Re: C2 METALIC BRAKES J65

Just an added safety note. Any fine particles, whether they are asbestos or dirt pose hazards to the lungs. Respiratory should be worn.

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 METALIC BRAKES J65

Just to reinforce what the other guys said, any small particles can be potentially harmful, and you should wear a mask and blow off dust outside when the wind is blowing. Take all precautions, but a little bit of dust - whatever it is - will likely not shorten your life. Asbestos related health problems usually take years of continuous exposure.

Clean the brake parts with mineral spirits/paint thinner. Avoid spraying it directly on the friction material, but any overspray will just evaporate off.

Since few changed their brake fluid over the years, the shoes and drums will usually outlive the hydraulic components. I recall one participant on this forum who had original J-65 components with plenty of lining material. My recommendation was to just clean everything up, rebuild the hydraulic components and put it all back together, but shoes and drums should be marked to go back to their original positions.

Also check drum ID. My experience with J-65 is that when the shoes wear out the drums are worn out, too, but that can take well over 100K miles of normal street use. The drum max ID is 11.090". OE drums don't have this dimension molded into the castings, but the later replacements do since FMVSS 105 went into effect on 01/01/1968. Some replacement drum may also have the max OD die stamped into the drum, which would indicate rework of an instock part that was manufactured before the standard went into effect, and subsequently reworked to make it legal to sell after the 1967.

Duke

[Jim W.]

Re: C2 METALIC BRAKES J65

Thanks, I'll be sure to heed all precautions. Haven't taken any measurements yet but since car has only 43,000 + miles on it the pads still appear thick and not really even rounded off on the edges yet. While on the subject; my drums ( which have the correct #s ) have a smattering of some red and green paint splotches through the black where the wheel contacts it. Was this a primer on the drum or from a wheel ? I can't verify the wheel because it has repro. knock-offs on now.