A Ford Owner's Guide to 1984-1990 Bronco II Rear Brake Drums
Everything you need to know about keeping the rear brakes on your classic Bronco II working like new.
- The standard brake drum size for all 1984-1990 Bronco IIs is 9 inches.
- Always replace brake drums, shoes, and hardware in pairs to ensure safe, even braking.
- Brands like Raybestos, Centric, and ACDelco offer reliable, quality replacements that are a worthwhile investment over economy options.
- While replacing drums, always inspect the wheel cylinders for leaks and the flexible brake lines for damage.
Signs of a Worn Bronco II Brake Drum
Because brake drums are made of thick cast iron, they wear out slowly. You might not notice a problem until it becomes serious. Pay attention to how your Bronco II feels and sounds when you brake.
Key Failure Symptoms:
- Pulsing or Shaking: If you feel a pulsing in the brake pedal or a vibration from the rear of the truck when braking, your drums may be "out-of-round" and no longer perfectly circular.
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A metallic scraping sound from the rear wheels when you apply the brakes is a critical sign. It often means the brake shoes are completely worn away and metal is grinding against the drum, or the drum itself is damaged.
- Reduced Stopping Power: If your Bronco II takes longer to stop than it used to, or the brake pedal feels soft and spongy, the rear drums and shoes may be worn past their service limit.
- Parking Brake Issues: A parking brake that doesn't hold the vehicle securely can be a sign that the rear drums are worn out and need adjustment or replacement.
Choosing an Aftermarket Brake Drum
For a vehicle like the 1984-1990 Bronco II, new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts from Ford are virtually impossible to find. The aftermarket is your only realistic source for new brake drums. Fortunately, many reputable brands produce quality replacements that meet or exceed the original specifications. Aftermarket brands are often grouped into tiers based on quality and price.
Economy Brands (Pronto, Dynamic Friction)
These brands offer the most affordable options. They are a good choice for a daily driver or a truck that sees light use. While they meet basic safety and performance standards, they may not last as long as higher-priced options. Some online discussions suggest that the cheapest options can sometimes have casting imperfections or be less true (perfectly round) out of the box.
Standard & Premium Brands (ACDelco, Bendix, Centric, Raybestos)
These are well-known, trusted names in the brake industry. For a few dollars more, you get a part that is generally manufactured to higher standards. Brands like ACDelco, Centric, and Raybestos are often praised for good quality control, ensuring a proper fit and smooth braking performance right out of the box. Raybestos, in particular, is a popular choice for Bronco II owners, with some suppliers specifically offering their products. These drums often feature better materials and manufacturing processes that help them resist warping from heat and provide a longer service life. For the small price difference, investing in a standard or premium brand is a smart choice for reliability and safety.
Pro Tip: When replacing your brake drums, it is highly recommended to also replace the brake shoes, springs, and hardware. These components wear together, and a full replacement ensures the entire system works correctly and saves you from having to do the job twice.
🎬 Watch: This in-depth guide shows you how to change drum brakes.Cost of Replacing Bronco II Brake Drums
Here is a general breakdown of what to expect for parts and labor costs. Prices can vary based on your location and chosen parts.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Drum (Each) | $59 - $107 |
| New Aftermarket Brake Shoes (Set) | $20 - $40 |
| Brake Hardware Kit | $10 - $25 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace both rear drums at the same time?
Yes. It is critical to replace brake drums in pairs to ensure even braking performance. Replacing only one side can cause the vehicle to pull to one side during braking, which is dangerous.
Are there any recalls on 1984-1990 Bronco II brake drums?
No, a search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls specifically for the brake drums on the 1984-1990 Ford Bronco II. Any recent recalls for "Ford Bronco" refer to modern models and are not relevant to the Bronco II.
What is the correct brake drum size for my Bronco II?
The standard rear brake drum for the 1984-1990 Bronco II is 9 inches in diameter. While some owners perform upgrades using parts from other vehicles like the Ford Aerostar, the direct-fit replacement is a 9-inch drum. 🎬 See a full brake drum and shoe replacement on a 1990 Bronco. Always confirm the size before ordering.
Can I replace the brake drums myself?
Yes, replacing the rear drums on a Bronco II is a job that a DIY mechanic with the right tools can handle. It involves removing the wheel, pulling off the old drum, and then replacing the shoes and hardware before installing the new drum. Be prepared for rusted parts and have tools like a brake spring tool, 🎬 Watch: A helpful walkthrough of the drum replacement process for Ford trucks. pliers, and a good set of wrenches.
What other parts should I inspect while replacing the drums?
While the drum is off, inspect the wheel cylinder for any signs of brake fluid leaks. Check the flexible brake hoses for cracks or swelling, as they can deteriorate internally over time. Also, ensure the self-adjuster mechanism is clean and moves freely.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Nominal Diameter: 9.00 inches Discard Diameter: 9.06 inches Overall Height: ~2.75 inches Brake Surface Width: ~2.11 inches
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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.
- Ford Bronco II:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Signs of a Worn Bronco II Brake Drum
- Key Failure Symptoms:
- Choosing an Aftermarket Brake Drum
- Economy Brands (Pronto, Dynamic Friction)
- Standard & Premium Brands (ACDelco, Bendix, Centric, Raybestos)
- Cost of Replacing Bronco II Brake Drums
- Frequently Asked Questions
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