1966-1971 Chevrolet Caprice Drum Brake Hardware Kit: A Mechanic's Guide
Don't let worn-out springs compromise the stopping power of your classic Caprice; here's what you need to know.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when replacing brake shoes to ensure safety and proper function.
- Symptoms of failure include noises, a spongy pedal, and a dragging or loose parking brake.
- For this vehicle, premium aftermarket brands like Raybestos and Centric offer excellent quality for the price.
- One kit typically services both rear wheels, but confirm this before purchasing.
Why You Must Replace Your Drum Brake Hardware
When you're working on a classic car like a 1966-1971 Chevrolet Caprice, it's the small details that count. The drum brake hardware is a perfect example. These aren't flashy parts, but they are critical for safety. The springs in the kit go through thousands of cycles of stretching and compressing. Over 50+ years, they lose their tension and can't pull the brake shoes back effectively. Rust and heat also take their toll, making springs brittle and prone to snapping. It is a non-negotiable rule among experienced mechanics: when you replace the brake shoes, you must replace the hardware kit. It ensures your new brakes work as intended and saves you from having to do the job twice.
Critical for Safety
Failing to replace old hardware can cause the new brake shoes to wear out quickly, make noise, or drag. In a worst-case scenario, a broken spring can get caught in the assembly, causing the wheel to lock up while you're driving.
Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Hardware
Bad hardware often shows symptoms that can be mistaken for other brake problems. Here’s what to listen and feel for:
- Scraping or Clicking Noises: A consistent scraping or clicking sound from the rear wheels that changes with wheel speed can be a sign of a broken or weak spring. This might mean a shoe is dragging against the drum.
- Spongy or Low Brake Pedal: If the hardware isn't allowing the self-adjusters to work properly, it can create excessive space between the shoes and the drum, leading to a pedal that feels soft or travels too far to the floor.
- Brake Dragging: If the return springs are too weak to pull the shoes back from the drum, the brakes will constantly drag. This creates excess heat, which you might notice as a burning smell, and will significantly reduce your fuel economy.
- Loose Parking Brake: The drum brakes are part of your Caprice's parking brake system. Worn hardware can prevent the shoes from holding firmly, making the parking brake feel loose or ineffective.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a vehicle from this era, new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts from GM are no longer available. The entire market consists of aftermarket parts. The good news is that modern manufacturing often produces parts that meet or exceed the quality of the originals from the 1960s. All the brands listed offer kits that will fit and function correctly.
Pro Tip: Drum brake hardware kits are sold per axle. You will need one kit to service both the left and right rear wheels.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Best — Premium Aftermarket (Raybestos, Centric): Raybestos and Centric are highly respected names in the brake industry. They are known for quality materials and manufacturing that ensures a proper fit. Many professional shops rely on these brands. For a critical safety component, spending a few extra dollars for a kit from one of these brands provides peace of mind.
- Better — Standard Aftermarket (ACDelco, Dorman): ACDelco is GM's in-house parts brand, and their Professional line is a solid, reliable choice, though it's often manufactured by companies like Raybestos. Dorman is known for providing a wide range of parts, but some professional mechanics report their quality can be inconsistent. For a simple spring kit, both are acceptable options.
- Good — Economy (Carlson, Dynamic Friction): These brands offer a budget-friendly solution that meets basic safety and fitment standards. For a car that is driven infrequently, these kits are adequate, but for a daily driver, investing in a premium brand is recommended.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $11.98 - $20.49 |
| Shop Labor (Hardware installed with shoes) | $150 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware if my old springs look okay?
Yes. Metal springs lose their tension from heat and age, which you can't see just by looking at them. For a part that costs less than $20, it is cheap insurance to guarantee your new brake shoes and drums last as long as they should and work safely.
Are the front and rear drum brake hardware kits the same?
No. If your Caprice has drum brakes on the front, the hardware kits for the front and rear are different and sold separately. Be sure to order the specific kit for the axle you are working on. Most 1967 and later models came with front disc brakes, so this is primarily a rear axle job.
What tools are needed to replace the hardware?
While it can be done with pliers and screwdrivers, it is highly recommended to use a set of drum brake service tools. These special tools are designed to safely install and remove the high-tension springs and clips, making the job much easier and preventing injury or parts damage.
Are there any recalls on this part?
No. A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls or safety campaigns for the drum brake hardware on the 1966-1971 Chevrolet Caprice.
Technical Specifications
Kit contains springs, pins, and clips for servicing two drum brake assemblies. Specific kits are required for front and rear axles if both have drum brakes. Common rear hardware kit part numbers include Raybestos H7018, Dorman HW7018, and ACDelco 18K1597.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.