Thunderbird Missing Springs

By & filed under Technical Q&A for Classic Cars.

Q.

I own a 1962 Thunderbird, and when doing a brake service on the car I noticed the manual shows two hold-down springs on each brake shoe. When I pulled the brake drums there was only one on each. Should I have two on each shoe?

A.

Yes, each brake shoe should have two hold down springs on a 1962 Ford Thunderbird. The lower one is generally in a slotted hole. Years ago some brake pad manufacturers would omit the slotted hole and the mechanic assembling the brakes would toss the lower spring/pin, as there was no hole for it. Most brake shoe manufacturers today are made to accept both springs and new brake spring kits are available for your great ride.

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2 Responses to “Thunderbird Missing Springs”
  1. noel sylvester

    I have a 1964 Buick Electra convertible. Brakes are an issue. Can I convert front brakes to disc, or where can I get good drums and pads?

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello Noel,

      For Classic Cars that are regularly driven the most popular upgrade is a front disc brake conversion. There are many options available for your car. Here are just a few to check out:

      Wilwood Conversion available at Jegs/Summit racing and others,

      Kanter Auto (kanter.com ) offers both disc brake conversion and original drums and shoes,

      and Scarebird ( scarebird.com ) who offer bracket kits and component lists to help you build your own disc brake conversion kit.

      Wrench Safe,
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      We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first year membership.
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      Reply