1966-1973 Dodge Charger Drum Brake Hardware Replacement Guide
Restore your classic Charger's stopping power and eliminate brake noise by replacing the essential drum brake hardware.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when installing new brake shoes to ensure proper function and prevent noise.
- For this classic Charger, aftermarket brands are the only practical option; brands like Carlson, Centric, and Dorman are reliable choices.
- Take a photo of the brake assembly before you begin disassembly. This provides an invaluable reference.
- A common mistake is installing the brake shoes backward; on these Mopars, the shoe with the longer lining (primary shoe) goes toward the rear of the car.
Is Your Charger's Drum Brake Hardware Failing?
For a classic car like the 1966-1973 Dodge Charger, the small parts in the drum brake system are just as important as the brake shoes themselves. The springs and clips in a hardware kit work hard every time you brake. After 50+ years, they are often worn out, stretched, and weak. Replacing them is a critical part of any rear brake job.
Key Failure Symptoms
Worn drum brake hardware can cause a range of issues. Look out for these common signs:
- Scraping or Dragging Noises: A constant light scraping or grinding sound from the rear wheels that may go away when you press the brakes is a classic sign of weak return springs.
- Brakes Sticking or Dragging: If the brakes feel like they aren't fully releasing, it can cause excessive heat, a burning smell, and poor acceleration. This is often due to broken or weak return springs.
- Loose or Ineffective Parking Brake: Worn hardware can contribute to a parking brake that doesn't hold the car firmly.
- Noise After a Brake Job: If you still hear noise after installing new brake shoes, the old hardware is almost always the culprit.
Pro Tip: Always replace your drum brake hardware kit when you replace your brake shoes. The cost is low, and it ensures your new shoes work correctly and quietly. The old springs have been weakened by countless heat cycles and will not perform like new ones.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a vintage vehicle like the '66-'73 Charger, new Original Equipment (OEM) parts are not a practical option. The market is served by reliable aftermarket brands that produce parts meeting original specifications. The main difference between brands often comes down to material quality, coatings for corrosion resistance, and kit completeness.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Good (Standard Replacement): Brands like Dorman and Centric's standard lines offer reliable, budget-friendly kits that get the job done for a daily driver or stock restoration. They are widely available and considered a good value.
- Better (Enhanced Quality): Carlson is often praised for its hardware quality and is a solid choice. Dynamic Friction (DFC) also fits here, often featuring stainless steel components and anti-corrosion coatings that can be beneficial for longevity.
- Best (Premium Features): Some kits from brands like Dynamic Friction include features like PTFE coatings on springs and rubber-coated clips to further reduce noise and corrosion. While not strictly necessary, these are nice upgrades for a thorough restoration.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Axle) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $11.46 - $21.26 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware with the shoes?
Yes. It is highly recommended by mechanics. The old springs have lost their tension from heat and age and won't pull the new shoes back correctly. This can lead to noise and premature wear, wasting the money you just spent on new shoes.
Is one kit for one wheel or both?
Drum brake hardware kits are typically sold as an axle set, meaning one kit contains all the parts needed for both the left and right rear wheels.
Are these kits complete?
Most kits include all the necessary springs, clips, and pins for the brake shoes. However, some Mopar-specific kits may not include parts for the parking brake lever or the strut bar. It's a good idea to inspect your old parts before discarding them, just in case a specific lever needs to be cleaned and reused.
Are there any recalls on my Charger's drum brakes?
While there were several brake-related recalls for this generation of Charger, they concerned components like the proportioning valve, brake hoses, or warning light switches, not the mechanical hardware inside the drum. Given the vehicle's age, these recalls would have been addressed decades ago.
What tools do I need to replace the hardware?
Besides standard hand tools, special tools like brake spring pliers and a brake spoon (adjuster tool) make the job much easier and safer. It's also wise to take a clear picture of the assembly with your phone before you take anything apart.
Technical Specifications
Kit typically contains return springs, hold-down springs, clips, and pins for one axle (two wheels). Specific kits are required for different drum sizes (e.g., 10-inch vs. 11-inch).
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.