1949 Brakes

[CadillacGlasses]

Hello everyone! I'm new here, but I'm working on a 1949 Coupe DeVille and in need of some help finding drum brakes for it. I've been scouring the internet for any leads to drums for sale, but haven't had any luck. The oldest drum I keep finding is a '52. Is there anyone who has worked on a '49 and might have a tip?

Thanks!
Mike

[Alan Harris CLC#1513]

If all else fails, there is a company called RG Relining or something like that that relines brake drums with new iron. I know that they are on the internet. A lot of people use them for the fancy Pontiac drum and wheel units and the Buick aluminum drums from the fifties and sixties.

I know your frustration. I looked for several years for decent drums for my Continental Mark II. Eventually, a pair did turn up.

There were a lot more late forties Cadillacs. Speaking of which, have you tried John Gately in Boston? He advertises in Hemmings and has been parting out old Cadillacs forever.

[Jay Friedman]

You can also try Joe Cutler, 49caddymanemail addresses not permitted, 508-476-3490.

[Bob Schuman]

You might try Midwest Power Products in Morris, Illinois, phone 815-942-0550. I have no interest in that company, but recently purchased an otherwise obsolete brake hydraulic hose from them, thanks to a suggestion from John Washburn. They were very good to deal with, shipped the proper hose the same day, and claimed to have brake linings, shoes, and drums for my 49 Cadillac. I was just asking about those parts for future reference, because a couple of years ago I had a very hard time finding proper brake linings for that car.
Bob Schuman

[49caddyman]

Hi Mike:  '48-'49 Cadillacs are my specialty. I've been collecting parts for these cars for 30 years now and have accumulated quite a collection of items.  I have several '49 brake drums on hand.  Do You need front, rear drums, or both?  You'll find my prices to be quite fair, and I stand behind what I sell.  Feel free to contact me at 508-476-3490 or email me at:  49caddymanemail addresses not permitted   Thanks.  Joe Cutler

[CadillacGlasses]

This is awesome! Thanks guys, sorry for the late reply, things have been quite busy and I've had to focus on other parts of the project.. I'll contact you shortly Joe, I'm planning on converting the front brakes to disc and refreshing the rear drums. I'm pretty sure the internals of the drums are solid, just the outer drum has been cracked.

Midwest Power is great to know of too, thanks Bob, they're practically down the street from where we're located.
-Mike