Reconditioning Brake Backing Plates

[Eric E.]

With the snow gone and the rain falling, it's time to pick up where I left off last fall. Gotta love Wisconsin winters!

After dis-assembling all four of my brake assemblies, I have found that the pads that the shoes travel on have worn down and are ridged. Is it ok just to grind these pads flat again before repainting the plates or is there a point where this will affect he brake function?

[John H.]

Re: Reconditioning Brake Backing Plates

I'd smooth them down and not worry about it - the backing plate material is plenty thick. Chrysler drum brake backing plate shoe pads were ribbed, to retain some of the lube longer - wasn't a bad idea.

[Eric E.]

Re: Reconditioning Brake Backing Plates

Thanks John, that answers my question. I have already found that I have put time in some parts that are past their life expectancy. It's easier to ask first than fix later if I ever plan on getting this one on the road.