Choosing the Right Drum Brake Shoes for Your 1964-1970 Dodge A100
Ensure your classic A100 stops safely and reliably with the right set of new aftermarket brake shoes.
- Always replace brake shoes in pairs on the same axle to ensure even braking.
- Modern aftermarket shoes offer superior, asbestos-free materials compared to the 1960s originals.
- Check for proper fitment; some new shoes may need to be professionally arced to match your drums for best performance.
- Confirm if front and rear shoes are the same for your A100 model, as they often use the same part number.
Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Shoes
When your A100's brake shoes are worn, your van will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them is a major safety risk. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A loud grinding or scraping sound when you apply the brakes is the most urgent sign. This often means the friction material is completely gone, and the metal shoe is grinding against the metal drum, causing severe damage.
- Reduced Stopping Power: If you notice it takes longer to stop or you have to press the brake pedal much harder than usual, your brake shoes are likely worn out and can't create enough friction.
- Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or goes down further than it used to can indicate worn shoes or other issues within the brake system.
- Parking Brake Issues: If your parking brake no longer holds the vehicle securely on a hill, it could be a sign that the rear brake shoes are worn down and out of adjustment.
Vehicle-Specific Known Issue: Aftermarket Shoe Fitment
Some A100 owners have reported that new aftermarket brake shoes may not be perfectly round or arced to the exact diameter of the drum. This can cause poor brake contact and performance. For a perfect fit, it is sometimes necessary to have a professional brake shop arc the new shoes to match your specific drums. This ensures full contact and optimal braking power right after installation.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
Original OEM parts for a 1960s vehicle are effectively unavailable. Today's aftermarket parts, however, are made with modern, superior materials that outperform the originals. Here’s a breakdown of available brands to help you choose.
Premium & Heavy-Duty Brands
These brands are known for consistent quality and durability, making them an excellent choice for any A100 owner who wants peace of mind and reliable performance.
- Wagner Brakes: A long-standing, reputable brand in the automotive industry. Their brake shoes are generally praised for being quiet, long-lasting, and providing stopping power similar to or better than original parts.
- Bendix: Known for being an OEM supplier for many manufacturers, Bendix has a strong reputation for quality. Users often consider them a reliable, high-quality choice for daily driving and even heavy-duty use.
Standard & Daily-Driver Brands
These brands offer a great balance of performance and value, making them a popular choice for most A100 owners.
- Powerstop: While known for performance brake kits, their standard replacement shoes are a solid choice. They are made from 100% new steel, feature asbestos-free formulas, and are designed to be a reliable upgrade over stock.
- Centric (Premium Lines): Centric's premium-grade shoes are generally considered a decent replacement part. They often provide good performance for the price, but be sure you are selecting from their premium or C-Tek lines rather than their economy offerings.
Economy Brands
These are budget-friendly options. While they meet safety standards, they may not offer the same longevity or fit-and-finish as more premium brands.
- Dynamic Friction: This brand offers a value-oriented option. Their shoes are made from new carbon steel and are precision ground for better fitment.
- Centric (Standard Lines): Centric's base-level parts can be hit-or-miss in terms of quality control. Some users have reported issues with fit and finish on their lower-end brake shoes. While they are an affordable option, inspect them carefully before installation.
Common Ordering Mistake
For the 1964-1970 Dodge A100, many manufacturers use the same part number for both the front and rear brake shoes. However, always verify the fitment for your specific vehicle and axle before ordering to avoid getting the wrong parts. A common size is 10 inches in diameter by 2.5 inches in width.
Estimated Costs for Drum Brake Shoe Replacement
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Drum Brake Shoes (One Axle) | $54 - $107 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $204 - $357 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace just one brake shoe?
No. Brake shoes must always be replaced as a set on both wheels of the same axle (both front wheels or both rear wheels). Replacing only one side will cause dangerously uneven braking, making the vehicle pull to one side when you stop.
Are front and rear brake shoes the same on the A100?
Often, yes. Many aftermarket brands list the same part number for both the front and rear axles of the 1964-1970 A100. However, you should always confirm this with the specific part you are ordering.
How difficult is it to replace drum brake shoes myself?
Replacing drum brakes is a moderately difficult job for a DIYer. It involves many springs and clips that must be removed and reinstalled in a specific order. It requires special tools like a brake spring tool and patience. If you are not experienced with brake work, it may be best to leave this job to a professional.
Should I replace my brake drums at the same time?
You should always inspect your brake drums when replacing the shoes. If they have deep grooves, a large lip on the edge, or are worn beyond the maximum diameter stamped on the drum, they must be replaced. At a minimum, it is good practice to have them resurfaced (machined) to ensure a smooth, flat surface for the new shoes to contact.
Technical Specifications
Brake Drum Diameter: 10.0 inches Brake Shoe Width: 2.5 inches Note: These are common specifications, but always verify based on your specific A100's configuration.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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- Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Shoes
- Vehicle-Specific Known Issue: Aftermarket Shoe Fitment
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
- Premium & Heavy-Duty Brands
- Standard & Daily-Driver Brands
- Economy Brands
- Common Ordering Mistake
- Estimated Costs for Drum Brake Shoe Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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