FJ40 drum brake shoe recommendation

[FineWynsFJ40]

I'm looking to replace the brake shoes on my 1974 FJ40 (OEM drums all around), and am curious to know which brand you would recommend. On RockAuto.com I see four that I would choose from: Beck/Arnley, Centric, Monroe, and Raybestos. I know Monroe is a reputable brand, and Raybestos is one of the better ones. I don't know Centric or Beck/Arnley. Are there other brands that I should look for? Are the more expensive Raybestos better than the Monroes or Centrics?

Also, I am kindly asking for no "do a disc brake conversion" responses. I respect it if you have, it is just not something I'm interested in pursuing. Thank you

I look forward to your advice,
Brian

 

[FishTacos]

Get genuine toyota shoes/pads. It just isn't worth the few bucks you will save when it is such an important safety system. CruiserDan here on mud works for Toyota and gives discounts to forum members.

I have 4 drums also on my '68. If you have a single circuit master (I bet you don't) swap it out for a dual circuit. Also, make sure your e-brake is in good working order. It is not just for parking on a hill. It is a fail-safe. Just my $.02. HTH. Good luck.

 

[DPV7070]

Get genuine toyota shoes/pads. It just isn't worth the few bucks you will save when it is such an important safety system. CruiserDan here on mud works for Toyota and gives discounts to forum members.

I have 4 drums also on my '68. If you have a single circuit master (I bet you don't) swap it out for a dual circuit. Also, make sure your e-brake is in good working order. It is not just for parking on a hill. It is a fail-safe. Just my $.02. HTH. Good luck.

Good advice here.

Also, make sure you have the shoes fitted to the drums. When I replaced all my shoes, I found that only the leading and trailing edges were contacting the brand new OEM Toyota shoes.

Good luck.

 

[Hugh Heifer]

Good advice here.

Also, make sure you have the shoes fitted to the drums. When I replaced all my shoes, I found that only the leading and trailing edges were contacting the brand new OEM Toyota shoes.

Good luck.

I have seen that before and it is often caused by improper assembly. There is a very good thread in Mud about assembly of drum brakes.
https://forum.ih8mud.com/40-55-series-tech/229294-74-drum-brake-system-tech.html

I often agree that OEM parts are the way to go but on old drum brakes I do not think you can go wrong with any of the major brands.

 

[Michael Hanson]

Hi, I like the auto zone gold. I don't have any problems with them. Good price, guaranteed for life, they replaced one set for me. Mike

 

[FineWynsFJ40]

Thanks for the responses. I completely agree with the parking brake as a fail safe, I have used that in the past when double pumping doesn't do it! :whiteknuckles:

I'll give Cruiser Dan a shout. Otherwise, I was thinking the premium Raybestos. I've been doing my research about properly setting them up, including fitting. I need my drums turned, we'll see if they fit the new shoes.

Thanks!
Brian