Model A & B
Ford Garage
Cast Iron Front Brake Drums
In 1931 Ford introduced the use of cast nodular iron front and rear brake drums, replacing the earlier drums which were assemblies of stamped steel drums mounted on steel hubs.
fordgarage.comThe pic above shows a comparison of the 1931 Model A front brake drum on the left, and the 1932 - 1934 Model B front brake drum on the right.
The drums are similar in appearance but the Model A drum is 11 inch internal diameter, whereas all 1932 and later drums were 12 inch internal diameter (larger on some trucks).
Note the visual difference of the dimension between the spokes and the outer diameter near the wheel flange surface.
fordgarage.comThis pic shows the inner construction of the one piece 1931 cast iron front drum. 1932 - 1934 front drums are similar.
The 1935 cast iron front drums are similar but have several small rib grooves on the outside diameter, rather than one large rib.
fordgarage.comHere's the best way to ID these old drums!
fordgarage.comIf you can't find them NOS, then look for the A or B prefix part number cast into the drum surface. This Model A drum is A-1106-C2.
fordgarage.comThe pic above shows the 1-3/4 inch shoe surface width of 1931 - 1934 original drums.
fordgarage.comThis pic above shows the dimension from the wheel stud mounting surface to the wheel flange contact surface of 1-11/32 inch.
fordgarage.comThe last pic above shows two methods of accurately measuring drum ID. The upper tool is an Ammco drum micrometer, and the lower tool is a Starrett 12 inch dial calipers.
For swap meets, you can also carry a Starrett 12 inch precision rule. If it won't fit in the drum, then the drum is 11 inch. If it fits loose it is oversize 12 inch and you can eyeball the approximate oversize.
More related information on Ford Garage:
- For more Model A & B related information, use the Site Search box at the top or bottom of this page.
- Model A, B & V8 Wheel Stud Removal and Installation Swaging
- Model A, B & V8 Wheel Stud Chart
- Model A, B & V8 Swage Cutting Tool on www.goodson.com
- Model A, B & V8 Dangerous Reproduction Lug Nut Characteristics
- Model A, B & V8 KR Wilson Rear Hub Puller
- Model A, B & V8 Truing Hubs on A Brake Drum Lathe
- Model A, B & V8 Brake Drum Lathe Rear Hub Mounting
- Model A 1931 Cast Iron Rear Brake Drum Details
- Early V8 Hydraulic Brake Drums for 1932-1935 Wire Wheels
Vince Falter
July 2005
