Two Different Types of Brake Drums

Usually the front drums are tight on the hub. You are supposed to move the hub & drum together to get at the shoes, not like the rears. Not sure why your drum was so loose. It should still be tight on the center register, if not the studs. Finned drums are considered a little better for cooling, and I think came on later cars. More weight gives more braking time before you get fade. I understand the spring is to reduce noise, but probably helps heat transfer too.