Re: BigKev's 1937 115-C Convertible Coupe

Posted by BigKev On 2024/6/7 10:11:41

In the process of prepping both cars to make the drive to Wisconsin for the National.

I knew I needed to turn the two front brake drums on the '37, as I heard a high spot rub when making an adjustment. No problem; I pulled the two drums last night, removed the seals and bearings, and cleaned them up so I could go get them turned.

..and then the adventure began.

I called over 20 shops in the area, even the "old" ones. No one turns drums anymore, and they have long departed with their brake lathes. Finally, I got a referral from another referral, and I was able to find a small shop that still does them. The first response was, "Well, depends on how old it is". Once I said '37 Packard, then it was, "Whew, no problem". I guess they don't touch anything newer than the last 30 years or so. As any modern drums are "one-time use" and are replaced as there is not enough meat on them to turn.

So, hopefully, they are able to get them turned true again, and that will be one more item off the list.

However, it shows that the shops that still have the equipment to do this kind of work are drying up quickly.