Ford LTD Drum Brake Shoe Guide: 1974-1979
Everything you need to know about choosing the right new aftermarket drum brake shoes for your classic Ford LTD.
- Symptoms like grinding noises, a soft pedal, or an ineffective parking brake mean it's time to inspect your rear brake shoes.
- For this vehicle, you will be buying aftermarket parts. Choose a trusted brand like Wagner for OE-style replacement or consider PowerStop for a slight performance feel.
- Always replace brake shoes in pairs (both rear wheels) and consider replacing the hardware and inspecting the drums at the same time.
- A recall was issued for the 1979 LTD's brake pedal linkage; ensure this has been checked on your vehicle.
Is it Time for New Brake Shoes?
For a heavy car like the 1974-1979 Ford LTD, the rear brakes do a significant amount of work. Over time, the friction material on your drum brake shoes wears down. Ignoring the symptoms of worn shoes can lead to poor braking performance or damage to other parts like the brake drum. Listen to your car; it will usually tell you when it's time for a brake job.
Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Shoes
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A metal-on-metal grinding sound from the rear wheels when braking is a critical sign that the shoe lining is completely gone. Stop driving the vehicle and have it inspected immediately.
- Reduced Braking Power: If you feel like you have to press the brake pedal harder or further to stop, your brake shoes may be worn out. This can also feel like a "soft" or "spongy" pedal.
- Vibrating Brake Pedal: While often associated with warped front rotors, severe issues in the rear drum system can also cause vibrations felt in the pedal.
- Parking Brake Issues: If your parking brake handle pulls up much higher than it used to, or the car won't hold on a hill, the rear shoes may be worn past their adjustment limit.
Recall Notice for 1979 Ford LTD
The NHTSA issued a recall (79V104000) for some 1979 Ford LTD models concerning the brake pedal support and linkage. While this is not directly related to the brake shoes themselves, it is a critical safety recall for the brake system. It's worth ensuring this has been addressed on your vehicle.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
Finding genuine Ford "OEM" parts for a vehicle from this era is nearly impossible. The market is served by aftermarket companies that produce new parts. Quality and performance can vary, so it's important to choose a reputable brand. Here’s a breakdown of common choices.
Brand Tiers for Your LTD
- Standard Replacement (Good): Brands like Wagner and Centric's PosiQuiet line are excellent standard replacement options. They are designed to provide performance similar to the original parts, focusing on quiet operation and reliable stopping for daily driving. Wagner is a long-standing, trusted name in the brake industry.
- Value-Oriented (Basic): Brands like Dynamic Friction and Centric's economy lines (often labeled C-Tek) offer a lower price point. These are functional for getting a car back on the road safely but may not offer the same longevity or quietness as more premium lines. Some users report average finish quality on budget parts, so inspect them before installation.
- Performance (Upgrade): A brand like PowerStop is often marketed as a performance upgrade. While typically known for disc brake kits, their drum shoes may offer a slightly stronger "bite" or initial stopping power. This can come at the cost of increased dust or a shorter lifespan compared to standard shoes. For a large, heavy car like the LTD, this can be a noticeable, if minor, upgrade in feel.
Pro Tip: When replacing brake shoes, it's highly recommended to also replace the hardware (springs and clips) and inspect the brake drums. New hardware ensures the shoes move correctly and prevents noise. If the drums are grooved or have a large "lip" on the edge, they should be resurfaced or replaced for best performance.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Drum Brake Shoes (Parts Only) | $50 - $85 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $200 - $335 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and the condition of your brake system. You may need to replace drums or wheel cylinders, which will add to the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace both sides at the same time?
Yes. Brake shoes must always be replaced as an axle set (both rear wheels) to ensure even braking and prevent the car from pulling to one side.
What does it mean to "arc" brake shoes?
Arcing is a process where the brake shoe lining is ground to match the exact diameter of the brake drum. This ensures full contact immediately. While common in professional race shops, most modern aftermarket shoes are made to fit standard drum sizes without this step.
Should I choose bonded or riveted shoes?
Bonded shoes use a strong adhesive to attach the friction material, while riveted shoes use metal rivets. For a daily-driven LTD, either type from a quality manufacturer is perfectly acceptable. Most modern aftermarket shoes are bonded.
Can I do this job myself?
Replacing drum brake shoes is a moderately difficult job that requires specific tools, like brake spring pliers and a jack with stands. It involves working with many small springs and clips under tension. If you are not an experienced DIY mechanic, it is best left to a professional.
Technical Specifications
Vehicle-specific drum brake shoe set for rear axle. Compatibility varies by exact year and model options. Always verify fitment before purchase.
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.