Hi.

I read that automatically adjustable brakes were introduced in the 1962 model year but the source didn't say when during the model year it was done. I have manually adjustable brakes and would like to swap over to automatic adjusters.

I have 9" X 2 1/2" drums up front and 9" X 2" drums in back. Advance Auto has the same brake shoe part number for both '62 and '63 Valiants, so I assume the back would be easy. Do the backs just require a new hardware kit or does the backing plate need to be changed or modified?

I know nothing about the fronts regarding swap-ability.

I know I could simply buy the parts to see if it'll work but all the parts involved are all "in the warehouse" and thus need to be ordered with the usual 1-2 day wait.

I'd rather know before buying anything because I don't want to have them order stuff in for me just for a look-see. It's a hassle for them and takes two visits to the store for me. I also have employees and they can lose their focus if I'm not around. It has cost me a lot of money to leave the job for simple errands as I've had to undo stuff that was done while I was absent; the necessary extra labor hours and new materials can add up.

Does anyone here know if I can simply swap things out? If not, does anyone know what must be done? I am tired of keeping them adjusted. I just want to back up a bit, you know?

Thank you for any help and time.

PS I'm glad to be a member of the forum as Mopar-friendly environments make me feel right at home.

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Aut nex vel an recolitus vita.

Yes, you can simply swap the parts provided they come from the same size brake system... 9" in the case of your '62. There was a substantial improment in self adjusters sometime in the late 60s or early 70's so if you're going to do the upgrade you should get the latest version. Do a search as quite a bit has been posted about this subject.

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David Kight
'62 Valiant Signet, White
'98 Dodge Dakota
'06 Jeep Liberty

Growing older is unavoidable but growing up is strictly optional.