HELP WITH 53 DRUM- FOR REAR BRAKES

[Hydrive53]

 Thanks for all the info, My drum is in a bad way. I had the rear brake haning up, and caused the drum to get heat cracks. I just don't want to chance it with that drum.

[David Pollock]

There were two brake sizes in 53. Most cars had ten inch drums, including Hy Drive.  Some cars had eleven inch drums , usually police and taxi.   Any drum of the right diameter from 46 to 56 should work just fine. The drum is riveted to the axle flange and it is possible to replace only the drum, but you would need a machine shop to get everything concentric before the rivets are replaced.  I do not think it would be difficult to find a replacement drum. I have logged about 500 000 miles on various Chrysler products 50- 55 and have never had to replace a worn out brake drum.   

One word of caution.  If your car has the  Kelsey wire wheel option that was used in '53 , ten inch brake drums from Canadian models will not fit, they are a one piece casting.  Only the USA drums will allow the wheel hub to fit.

[John Hendricks]

Try Moore's Auto Parts in rapid city SD.  they have a huge Mopar salvage yard

[Hydrive53]

I have a 1953 ply and am in the need for a GOOD!!! USABLE!!!! rear brake drum for the left(drivers) side of the car. eveyone that I have found IS BAD!!!! anyone out their have one that I could buy from you?? Buy the way this car is to be a driver and will have to have lots of meat on the drum. the car will be driven about 300-400 miles a week. I am told that only the 1953-1954 drums will work on this one for it has the hy-drive trans. thanks for any help with leads or a part. ::)