In order to get the correct drums, you'll need to know the width of the brake shoes. Aim for 11x3 shoes and matching drums. Some of the catalog listings are squirley as when I was looking for my '70 Monaco, some didn't claim to have 11x3 items, but the dimensions of the items said they did. Have to carefully sift it all out! They seem to be there, when they allegedly aren't. When we did the rear brakes on our '66 Newport, its first time, the drums were wide enough for 11x3s, so we put the in back there. That made 11x3 all the way around. It DID stop well, that way. Other options for the back were 11x2.75 and 11x2.5.
Raybestos and similar have brake drum listings in addition to brake shoes and such. Check rockauto for an idea of what's out there. The price of brake drums has increased of late, so shop around for the best part and price.
As with the brake pads, check the "edge code" on the linings on the brake shoes. Of the two letters, "C" to "F", aim for "FF" for the best performance, if possible.
Get one of the inside/outside micrometers to adjust the brake shoes with. It'll give you a better initial adjustment. Pretty slick how it works! You first adjust it to the brake drum's friction surface diameter, then adjust the shoes to the appropriate diameter to match.
For best results, go through a "break-in" period of no hard stops at first. Progressively do harder stops as mileage is accumulated. Like moderate decal from 45-25mph, a few in a row, if possible. Then let them cool overnight and do it again the next day. You should feel the increase in decal rate and performance as things progress. A few hard decels can be done later on, without harm. The time investment will be worth it.
CBODY67
