So while I have the front end and brakes apart for the rebuild, I figure I should also change out the conical brake retaining springs according to the Condon book.

I think I saw a thread one time about using Ford retaining hardware but can't seem to find it now. What parts should I use, or is there a Mopar or aftermarket replacement shoe retainer kit?

Any advise please.

Thanks in advance.

What do have against the factory style of hold down spring? Just get a new hardware package at your local part store. I've only had a problem with springs on mine one time and that was after it sat for 6 months and the shoe had rusted to the drum.

The best hardware kit I know of for the 9" brakes is the factory one for the rear brakes on an '87 Dakota w/9" brakes. The shoe hold-down springs are of a much better design than the weaker old hook style. But, the commonly-available aftermarket kits for the A-body 9" drums have a newer-style, better shoe hold-down spring setup, too. If you use the Dakota hardware kit, you also need to install the Dakota shoe-to-shoe spring (the lighter-weight one up near the top, not the heavier one down near the bottom).

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

nothing against factory other than the Condon rebuild book claims that the conical srping hold down is a bit weak and suggests an upgrade.

I was just looking to find out of NAPA would do the trick.

Thanks for the info.

Yeah, the old conical hook-type springs are no longer supplied. The kit from NAPA should have the good "Nail and quarter-twist retainer" style.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.