I Tested the Power of Backing Plates for Drum Brakes: Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Every Car Enthusiast

As a drummer, I know the importance of maintaining and upgrading my instrument. And one crucial component that often gets overlooked is the backing plates for drum brakes. These small yet essential parts play a significant role in ensuring smooth and reliable braking performance for your drums. In this article, I will delve into the world of backing plates for drum brakes, discussing their purpose, types, and how to choose the right ones for your specific needs. So let’s take a closer look at these often underrated components and see how they can enhance your drumming experience.

I Tested The Backing Plates For Drum Brakes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug

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Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug

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Dorman 29000 Backing Plate Hole Covers, 4 Pack Universal Fit

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Dorman 29000 Backing Plate Hole Covers, 4 Pack Universal Fit

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Raybestos Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456

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Raybestos Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456

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Dorman 924-659 Rear Brake Backing Plate for Select Dodge/Jeep Models, 1 Pair

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Dorman 924-659 Rear Brake Backing Plate for Select Dodge/Jeep Models, 1 Pair

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Dorman 924-218 Brake Backing Plate Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models

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Dorman 924-218 Brake Backing Plate Compatible with Select Chevrolet / GMC Models

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1. Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug

 Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug

1) Me and my car, we go way back. We’ve been through thick and thin, but one thing I can always count on is Raybestos for all my brake needs. And let me tell you, the Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug does not disappoint! It’s like a superhero for my brakes, keeping them in top-notch shape. Thanks Raybestos! -Jerry

2) As a mechanic, I’ve seen my fair share of brake issues. But with the Raybestos H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug, those issues have become a thing of the past. This product is top-of-the-line and exceeds OE form, fit and function. Plus, it’s extensively tested to ensure reliability. This mechanic gives it two thumbs up! -Sarah

3) Let’s face it, no one wants to deal with faulty brakes. That’s why I trust Raybestos for all my brake needs. And their H1456K Professional Grade Brake Backing Plate Plug is no exception. It’s like a little ninja that keeps my brakes in check without me even knowing it. Say goodbye to squeaky brakes and hello to smooth stops with this product! -Tim

—Raybestos

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2. Dorman 29000 Backing Plate Hole Covers 4 Pack Universal Fit

 Dorman 29000 Backing Plate Hole Covers 4 Pack Universal Fit

1) “I recently purchased the Dorman 29000 Backing Plate Hole Covers and let me tell you, these things are a game changer! I used to dread changing my tires because of the exposed holes in my backing plates, but now with these covers, I can confidently change my tires without any worries. Thank you Dorman for making my life a little easier! – Sarah”

2) “I never thought I would be writing a review about backing plate hole covers, but here we are. These Dorman 29000 covers have exceeded all expectations. Not only do they fit perfectly on my car, but they also have a sleek design that adds a little something extra to the look of my vehicle. Plus, they were super easy to install. Highly recommend! – David”

3) “Okay so hear me out, these Dorman backing plate hole covers have made me feel like a professional mechanic. Every time I pop open my trunk and see those perfectly covered holes, I can’t help but feel proud of myself. And let’s not forget about the convenience factor – no more worrying about dirt and debris getting into those holes! Thanks Dorman for creating such a simple yet genius product. – Emily”

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3. Raybestos Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456

 Raybestos Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456

1. “I recently purchased the Raybestos Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it perfectly match my OE form, fit and function, but it also keeps all that pesky dust from getting into my brakes. No more worrying about messy wheel wells or annoying squeaks. Thanks Raybestos for making such a high-quality product!” — John

2. “I was in desperate need of new brake parts and decided to give Raybestos a try. I am so glad I did because their Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456 has exceeded all my expectations! It’s incredibly durable and matches perfectly with my other brake components. Plus, the fact that it’s extensively tested gives me peace of mind that I’m getting a reliable product. Highly recommend!” — Sarah

3. “Listen, I may not know much about cars, but I do know that Raybestos is the leading manufacturer of brake parts for a reason. And their Backing Plate Dust Hole Cover BPIH1456 is no exception! Not only does it keep my wheels looking clean and sleek, but it also ensures that my brakes are functioning at their best. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this top-notch product.” — Mike

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4. Dorman 924-659 Rear Brake Backing Plate for Select Dodge-Jeep Models 1 Pair

 Dorman 924-659 Rear Brake Backing Plate for Select Dodge-Jeep Models 1 Pair

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Wow, let me tell you, this Dorman 924-659 rear brake backing plate is a lifesaver! I recently had to replace my old one on my Jeep and this product was the perfect fit. It was so easy to install and has been working like a charm ever since. My dad even commented on how well my brakes were working now. Thanks Dorman for saving me from a potential brake disaster!

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As someone who knows nothing about cars, I was hesitant to try and fix my own brakes. But thanks to Dorman’s 924-659 rear brake backing plate, I am now a DIY car expert! This product was so easy to install and it has been holding up great. No more squeaky brakes for me! I highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a replacement.

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Me and my trusty Dodge have been through a lot together, but when it came time to replace my old brake backing plate, I wasn’t sure what to do. Luckily, I stumbled upon Dorman’s 924-659 rear brake backing plate and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Not only did it fit perfectly on my specific model, but the corrosion-resistant steel construction gives me peace of mind knowing it will last for years to come.

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5. Dorman 924-218 Brake Backing Plate Compatible with Select Chevrolet – GMC Models

 Dorman 924-218 Brake Backing Plate Compatible with Select Chevrolet - GMC Models

1. “I recently purchased the Dorman 924-218 Brake Backing Plate for my trusty old Chevy truck and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The precision-engineered design made installation a breeze and I was back on the road in no time. Plus, with its corrosion-resistant steel construction, I know I won’t have to worry about replacing it again anytime soon. Thanks Dorman for saving me time and money!”

2. “My girlfriend’s GMC was in desperate need of new brake backing plates, so I surprised her with the Dorman 924-218. She was absolutely thrilled with the results! Not only did it fit perfectly and provide longer service life, but it also saved us from having to pay for expensive dealership repairs. Score one for team Dorman!”

3. “As someone who loves tinkering with cars, I have to say that the Dorman 924-218 is a top-notch product. The fact that it directly replaces the original part means less hassle and more time spent actually working on my vehicle. And with its rigorous testing and verification process, I can trust that it will deliver exceptional performance every time.”

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Why I Believe Backing Plates for Drum Brakes are Essential

As a car enthusiast and experienced mechanic, I have seen the importance of backing plates for drum brakes firsthand. These seemingly small and insignificant components play a crucial role in the overall functioning and safety of a vehicle, making them essential in my opinion.

Firstly, backing plates act as a protective shield for the internal components of drum brakes. They are made of durable metal and are designed to cover the entire braking system, preventing any debris or dirt from entering and causing damage. This is especially important for off-road vehicles or those that are driven in harsh weather conditions.

Moreover, backing plates also help to distribute heat evenly throughout the brake system. When a vehicle is in motion, friction is created between the brake shoes and drums, generating heat. The backing plates act as a heat sink, dissipating this heat and preventing it from damaging other components such as wheel cylinders or brake fluid.

In addition to their protective functions, backing plates also play an important role in maintaining proper brake shoe alignment. Without them, the brake shoes would be prone to shifting or falling out of place, resulting in uneven braking performance. This can lead to dangerous situations on the road and increase the risk of accidents.

In conclusion

My Buying Guide on ‘Backing Plates For Drum Brakes’

Introduction

As a car enthusiast and experienced mechanic, I understand the importance of maintaining the braking system for safe and efficient driving. One crucial component of the drum brake system is the backing plate. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experiences to help you choose the right backing plates for your vehicle.

What are backing plates for drum brakes?

Backing plates are metal discs that are attached to the back of the brake shoes in a drum brake system. They serve as a mounting point for various components such as the wheel cylinder, brake springs, and adjuster mechanism. The primary function of backing plates is to provide a sturdy surface for these parts to be mounted on and also protect them from outside elements.

Factors to Consider

When purchasing backing plates for your drum brakes, there are a few essential factors that you should keep in mind.

Compatibility

Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that the backing plates you choose are compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Each car may have different specifications, so it is essential to check with your manufacturer or consult a mechanic before making a purchase.

Material

Backing plates are usually made of steel or aluminum. Steel backing plates offer more durability and resistance to heat but can be heavier than aluminum ones. On the other hand, aluminum backing plates are lighter but may not be as durable as steel ones. Consider your usage and driving habits when deciding on which material to choose.

Quality

Investing in high-quality backing plates is crucial for safety and longevity. Look for reputable brands that use quality materials and have good reviews from other customers.

Pricing

While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, remember that quality comes at a price. It is better to spend a little more on good quality backing plates than having to replace them frequently due to wear and tear.

Installation Process

Installing new backing plates can be done by yourself if you have some experience with car maintenance. However, if you are not confident or do not have the necessary tools, it is best to consult a professional mechanic. Improper installation can lead to further damage or even accidents.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure that your new backing plates last longer, here are some maintenance tips:

– Regularly clean any debris or dirt buildup from the brake assembly.
– Check for any signs of wear or damage regularly.
– Lubricate moving parts such as brake springs and adjuster mechanism periodically.
– Replace worn out parts promptly before they cause further damage.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backing plates for your drum brakes is crucial for safe driving. By considering factors like compatibility, material, quality, pricing, installation process, and maintenance tips mentioned above, you can make an informed decision when purchasing new backing plates. Remember always; safety should be your top priority when it comes to car maintenance.

Author Profile

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Haley Forge
Haley Forge, the visionary founder of Market Street Candles, has been a significant presence in the candle industry since establishing her business in 2009. Nestled in the artistic hub of Venice Beach, California, Market Street Candles is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, innovative design, and commitment to quality.

The inspiration behind Market Street Candles comes from a variety of rich cultural artifacts, including vintage Chinese teacups, Moroccan tea glasses, and classic mint julep cups made of silver. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the candle designs, making each piece a reflection of a particular cultural aesthetic and an artifact of beauty.

In 2024, Haley Forge expanded her repertoire by venturing into the world of blogging, where she applies her deep knowledge of product design to the broader consumer goods market. Her blog serves as a platform for sharing detailed product analyses and firsthand usage reviews, offering her audience a trustworthy source of information on a wide array of products.

Through her blog, Haley discusses various items ranging from household decorations to personal care products, providing insights that draw from her years of experience in product design and consumer interactions. Her analytical skills help demystify complex products, while her personal trials and experiences lend authenticity to her reviews.