VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc Wich brake?

Relining my '36 1/2 ton brakes; there are two different GM part numbers on the shoes. On set has #599849 and has a spot of BLUE paint on the side, the other set is part #3682131 and has a spot of ORANGE. Which shoe goes where?

ron

I don't know where you found these numbers but the brake shoes for 1936 - 1950 cars and 1/2 ton trucks are all the same. (the exception would be the 1936 Standard as it still had steel drums). The numbers did change over the years due to the type of lining material (and bonded brakes). ....
But all 8 shoes were the same.

Thanks Gene; the numbers are printed on the brake shoes and also have GM printed, these are in their original GM box. One set seems slightly thicker than the other. I was thinking they would go on the front side of each wheel but maybe it doesn't make any difference.

ron

Ron,
What is the part number on the box?

Original GM box says Group no. 5.018, part no. 603872.

Ron,

The Group No. and part no. indicate 4 wheel brake replacement for a 36-42 passenger and commercial excluding FC.

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/1929_57chevyparts/57cmpc0458.htm

As for the thicker ones going on the front of each wheel, you may be right, the 1938 shop manual says the rear facings can outlast the front by a 2 to 1 margin.

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/1938/38csm118.html

Dan

Thanks Dan, I'll go with that.