MGB Register Forum

Decided that replacing my 52 year old brake drums, would be a good lock down project. When I separated the drum from the flange, both the mating surfaces were thick with rust. Were they originally painted? Would it be a good idea to do so now?
Thanks
Vic

I don't believe these surfaces were painted at the factory. The drum is (I think) cast iron, which doesn't rust as readily as mild steel. I would clean everything up with a wire brush on a drill or angle grinder (eye protection essential!) and see how things look. The original drums are good quality material, and unless excessively worn or corroded on the braking surface, or cracked, should be perfectly serviceable. When cleaned and checked a wipe over with light oil on the mating surfaces and some heat resistant paint on the outside (cosmetic!) should finish the job. Make sure the braking surface is perfectly clean and the shoes are clean and not excessively worn.

Ian F

A liitle known fact the connection between lawnmowers and MGBs.

Certainly on early cars like my 65 with original brake drums when cleaned one willfind a Qualcast sysmbol - yes the same iron founders who made lawnmowers! They made lots of cast ironbits for industry.

Hi George
Looked at my drums. They were still making them for MG in 1974 . I use a VERY thin smear of copper grease on the the hub mating surface before fitting the drum. Obviously be very careful as grease and brake shoes dont mix!
This prevents them from rusting and sticking when trying to remove at a future date.
Best regards
Mike Barclay

I always refit the drums to the hub in a spotlessly clean (wire brush + lots of brake cleaner) and dry. I've never had a problem with removal and when refitting the drum there is nothing to prevent it running true. This is most important as if it runs out of true by even a couple of thou the brake judder will be unbelievable!

Thanks for the advice - The old drums were badly scored by the rivets that secured the linings to the shoes in the old days.
New shoes were fitted sometime before 2010, but a leaky oil seal made them useless.
Vic