Brake Drum turning

Is there an easy way to determine the life left in stock 9" drums? My FSM sez " Do not remove more than .030" thickness of metal". But there is no dimension for maximum inside diameter or bench mark for what amount of material should remain on the circumference of the drum. Anybody have experience, specifications or sugestions for this or is this something best left to the experts at a good machine shop?

Thanks as always :stout:

 

Isn't the nominal ID 9"? Removing 0.030" of metal gives a maximum ID of 9.060" (I would think).

 

Actually 1/16" or .062 is the most that any drum should be turned on the diameter. I've had lots of different drums turned in my day and everyone that I have ever seen was marked .062 maximum removal. Most drums unless a butcher at the auto parts turned them or the owner abused them should be able to be turned 3 times before replacement is needed

 

I would imagine new drums would be the order of the day .... that is if there is any question. Brakes, as you all know, are the most serious system on any vehicle. It's gotta stop even if it won't go! Takes no chances here. My $.02 worth.

MM :v6:

 

We turn rotors and drums at the NAPA store I work at. We have a manual that that has the info on each application. We measure each piece and go from there. We can't turn them with less than .030 left above discard. Liability and state laws in MI are the reasons not just trying to sell more parts, so don't give the guy behind the counter grief he just doing his job.

 

I agree with mark on this one. Go with new drums, if you're like a lot of us these jeeps just get harder to stop as we add to them . Such as oversize tires, winches, lift kits and the list goes on. So it does pay to keep a good set of brakes on our favorite ride. Saftey is not over rated.

 

This is all good advice especially with regards to stopping safely. Makes sense to do the upgade now even if I was feeling a little Dutch just lately. Thanks for all yer help guys!