Ford LTD Rear Drum Brake Hardware Kit Guide: 1979-1986
Don't let worn-out springs and clips ruin your Ford LTD's rear brake job; here's what you need to know.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit when replacing rear brake shoes; it's critical for safety and performance.
- OEM Motorcraft hardware is not available; reputable aftermarket brands like Centric, Raybestos, Dorman, and DFC are all reliable choices.
- No recalls or TSBs are active for this part; failures are due to the vehicle's advanced age and normal wear.
- Symptoms like scraping noises, a weak parking brake, or a low pedal are often caused by failed hardware, not just worn shoes.
Why You Must Replace Your LTD's Brake Hardware
When servicing the rear drum brakes on a 1979-1986 Ford LTD, replacing the hardware kit is not just a suggestion—it's essential. The springs in the kit have been under constant tension and exposed to millions of heat cycles for decades. This causes them to lose their strength. Weak springs can't pull the brake shoes back effectively, leading to brake drag, noise, and premature wear. For the low cost of a kit, you are ensuring the entire brake job works correctly and lasts for years. It's cheap insurance against having to do the job twice.
Age is the Enemy
For a vehicle from this era, parts fail from age as much as mileage. Original hardware is well past its service life. Expect to replace it whenever you service your rear brakes.
Symptoms of Failing Drum Brake Hardware
Worn hardware can cause a range of brake problems. Often, these symptoms are blamed on the brake shoes when the small metal parts are the real cause.
- Scraping or Dragging Noises: A constant light scraping or rubbing sound from the rear wheels that may change when turning can indicate a weak return spring is allowing a shoe to contact the drum.
- Clicking or Popping When Braking: A distinct click when you first apply the brakes can be caused by worn hold-down springs allowing the shoes to shift on the backing plate.
- Poor Parking Brake Performance: If your parking brake doesn't hold firmly, it can be a sign that the self-adjuster components in the hardware kit have seized or failed.
- Spongy or Low Brake Pedal: If the self-adjuster is not working correctly, the shoes have to travel farther to contact the drum, which can result in a pedal that feels low or requires pumping to feel firm.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
Original Equipment (OEM) Motorcraft hardware kits for a car of this age are effectively unavailable. The aftermarket is your only realistic source, and the quality is generally excellent for this basic but critical part.
For a standard Ford LTD, you don't need high-performance components. A quality standard replacement kit is the perfect choice. All the listed brands offer reliable options.
- Standard Replacement (Good Tier): Brands like Centric and Raybestos are industry standards. They produce reliable kits that meet or exceed original factory specifications. Centric is often praised for its consistent quality and finish.
- Economy/Standard (Good Tier): Dorman and Dynamic Friction (DFC) are also solid choices. Dorman is well-known for producing a vast catalog of OE-style replacement parts, while DFC sometimes offers upgraded materials like stainless steel components.
For a daily-driven LTD, the performance difference between these brands will be unnoticeable. The most important factor is that you are replacing the old, fatigued hardware with a new kit.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $10 - $20 |
| New OEM Hardware Kit | Not Available |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $100 - $200 (as part of a full rear brake job) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware if it looks okay?
Yes. Metal fatigue in springs is not always visible. The springs lose their specific tension rating over time, which is critical for proper brake function. For the low cost, it is never worth reusing old hardware.
Are there any recalls for the drum brake hardware on my LTD?
No, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Ford or the NHTSA for the drum brake hardware on the 1979-1986 Ford LTD. Any recalls from that era were for other brake system components like hydraulic lines. Failures today are due to normal age and wear.
Does the hardware kit include everything I need?
A comprehensive kit should include all the return springs, hold-down springs, pins, clips, and the self-adjuster assembly (star wheel, lever, and cable/spring). Always compare the kit contents to the parts on your vehicle before you begin disassembly.
Can I install just the hardware without changing the shoes?
While possible, it is not recommended. The hardware should always be replaced whenever you install new brake shoes. If your hardware has failed, it has likely caused uneven or accelerated wear on your existing shoes, so it's best to replace the shoes, drums, and hardware all at the same time for a complete, safe repair.
Technical Specifications
Kit typically includes return springs, hold-down springs, pins, clips, and self-adjuster components. Must be compatible with the standard 10-inch or 11-inch drum brakes used on the 1979-1986 LTD platform.
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.