Thank You, Tom Endy
 

Thank you for a very informative Restorer article concerning Model A fasteners.
Improper bolts such as the front spindle/backing plate bolts are critical as they can affect the safety of the car and the cars on the road with us at the time we are out there. Case in point: The new replacement bolts that I have seen do not have a shoulder. This seemingly insignificant point can cause many problems in braking, especially a REAL panic stop. These bolts are stressed in Shear and Tension and much torsional stress is exerted at this point in the assembly.

1) Right front brake locked up during a panic stop on a bridge at about 35-45 mph.
2) Model A slammed twice into the high curb of the walk way on the bridge and almost over turned. Lots of traffic present moving both ways.
3) The right front backing plate had worked loose although it could not be moved by hand.
4) A PANIC stop caused the backing plate to twist which turned the push rod into a pretzel causing the brake assembly to lock the brake drum.
5) No injuries were sustained other than to the Model A.
6) Parts needed to repair were;
a) Tire and Wheel
b) Brake push rod
c) Properly manufactured bolts with shoulders.
d) Front axle
e) Front radius rod

Also noted was the presence of paint on the mounting surfaces of the spindle-backing plate-grease baffle. The paint has a removable dimension and it wears away with the working of the parts.
I want to thank you again, Tom as I think that more emphasis needs to be made in the area of proper fasteners for the Model A.

Re: Thank You, Tom Endy
 

Photos are included:
Having trouble uploading pictures
I'll start with the backing plate. Notice the elongation of the bolt holes from the twisting motion of the plate during a true panic stop. Also observe the bright spots around the bolt holes. That is where paint was worn away slowly causing the plate to work loose on the spindle. The bolts, not having shoulders also aided in allowing the backing plate to rotate fore and aft.

Re: Thank You, Tom Endy
 

Well said GB!