<VV> aluminum drums - Datsun!

[Larry Forman]

Hi Brad,
I replaced the stock Early brake drums with old 79 (or thereabouts) Datsun 240Z rear brake drums.  Works well.  The weight is right about 2(!) pounds less PER wheel and the rotating mass is reduced as well as the unsprung weight, PLUS it cools better.  Bolt on for my car, double check for Early stock wheels that the fins still fit in there.  I would NOT paint nor polish these, as much as I might be tempted.  You really want these sand or bead blasted to retain all the cooling area possible.  Polishing only reduces the heat flow by making the surface area smaller with no surface roughness.  The finish would be somewhat satin with blasting.  These are constantly on eBay.  Keep an eye out for deals or at the local bone yard.  Measure or have the seller measure the diameter before you place your money down.
-- Larry  
----- Original Message -----
From: "Brad Alley" <bka@winterparklaw.net>
To: <virtualvairs@corvair.org>
Subject: <VV> aluminum drums
Date: Fri, 5 Nov 2004 14:13:25 -0500

> 
> Hi all: I read somewhere a running dialouge
> about using aluminum drums from early buicks etc. i don't remember the
> projected benifits. can anyone advise? Assum better heat disapation and
> lighter weight seem logical. If so has anyone explored or installed tr-6
> aluminum drums/brakes? Seems worth exploring as they are 9" with 4x4.5 bolt
> pattern. Any experience suggestions? Also re: trim whats the best methods to
> polish and was the finish more satin or crome? thanks from a newbe Brad