M37 Brake Relining

[booze_rooster]

Well, I'm chewing deep into rebuilding both axles so I can get my frame back onto jack stands instead of leaning against the wall wrapped up in poly sheeting to keep the *ahem* kinetic disassembly dust from accumulating on it.

I just got the rear axle hubs torn down, everything waterboarded in the parts washer, rinsed and wiped clean. Bearing race and cone numbers written on the bags they're in for reference.

Looking at my brake shoes next.

Now a guy with money to spend can run out and toss $40-$50 at new individual shoes, but I'm interested in relining the brakes myself. I understand the concept, I have a press, a vise, a countersink set, a plethora of welding clamps and vise grips, and a can-do attitude. I know you can source modern lining material with ease. In any case I don't want to rely on an ever-shrinking world of old school mom and pop shops to handle brake relining for me every time I notice my material is worn past spec. Its both a point of pride and an old school skill I'd like to add to my repertoire.

My question is- is there a source for brake rivets for these trucks? I already cruised through VPW's catalog. No results. Before I improvise, I'm asking the experts here.

Thanks for any and all help!

 

[OutpostM37]

I had my M37 brake shoes relined by Porterfield in California. They bonded and riveted the linings to the shoes. Give them a shout for your rivet needs. The R4-S lining material helps my M37 stop sooo nice. Much better than the woven asbestos (or whatever) material used on these parts. Their number is ‭(949) 548-4470‬.
Porterfield Racing Brakes
1767
Placentia Ave
Costa Mesa CA 92627

 

[murf]

I had my M37 brake shoes relined by Porterfield in California. They bonded and riveted the linings to the shoes. Give them a shout for your rivet needs. The R4-S lining material helps my M37 stop sooo nice. Much better than the woven asbestos (or whatever) material used on these parts. Their number is ‭(949) 548-4470‬.
Porterfield Racing Brakes
1767
Placentia Ave
Costa Mesa CA 92627

What did they run you ?

 

[OutpostM37]

What did they run you ?

Last I recall, it was about $129ish. Well worth the no cringe safety factor.

 

[murf]

For 8 shoes?

 

[OutpostM37]

For 8 shoes?

No, for the front 4 shoes. sorry for the confusion. Back brakes are the old woven lining.

 

[OutpostM37]

No, for the front 4 shoes. sorry for the confusion. Back brakes are the old woven lining. Call them and see the price.

 

[murf]

Still...not bad for the improved material.

 

[OutpostM37]

Still...not bad for the improved material.

Even if it went up to 169/ axle, I would do it. Your vehicle, your call. Great upgrade to the braking. Put them on the FRONT axle. enjoy the stopping power. Call them.

 

[OutpostM37]

Here is additional information on the R4-S compound for pad and shoe braking systems:
R4-S Performance Street - The R4-S shoe is designed for all types of vehicles ranging from passenger cars, large SUV’s, tow vehicles, and commercial vehicles. It stands out in a vast array of uses as a reliable high friction longer lasting brake shoe. For trucks, a shoe that adds a substantial increase in rear axle stopping power at all temperatures. On your daily driven road car it will provide both longer shoe and pad life.