A body 8 3/4...can I use 9" drums from a 7 1/4 rear??

[dusterdoug]

I'm swapping to a 8 3/4, and am wondering if I have the A-body OEM
8 3/4 small bolt pattern axles...can I use the 9" brakes that came on a
7 1/4 rear.

Is the 8 3/4 axle register and centering hole on the 9" drum compatible??

Backing plate bolt pattern the same...???



Thanks!

 

[daredevil]

I believe registers the same so theres not two different wheels as it centers the wheel too. Believe you have to drill a fifth hole in the backing plate and the brakes will work.

 

[dartman340ta]

better off finding right backing plates 7 1/4 backing plates dont fit been there done that the rest is the same .... hosing flange is different 4 hole verse 5 hole 5 hole is bigger not by much ... just better to do it right the first time

 

[pettybludart]

You can buy the bigger backin plates from a Dakota(87-90)

 

[dusterdoug]

Good info...thanks guys. Especially the Dakota backing plate deal!

I figured I'd ask before I strating tearing stuff apart. I have a 7 1/4 in the 'ol project 408 Dart and wouldn't ya know, EVERYTHING about those 9" brakes is brand new: Semi-metallic pads, all of the hardware, wheel cylinders...even the drums!

Thanks again!