8 Best Brake Drums

Looking for a reliable and high-quality rear brake drum for your vehicle? Look no further! In this review, we will be comparing several top-notch options that will ensure optimal braking performance. Whether you are an automotive enthusiast or simply someone who wants to ensure their safety on the road, investing in a reliable rear brake drum is essential. These products have a long history of providing superior stopping power and durability, making them a popular choice among vehicle owners.

Rear brake drums have been an integral part of automotive braking systems for many years. They provide a surface for the brake shoes to press against, generating friction and allowing the vehicle to slow down or come to a halt. Over time, rear brake drums have evolved to offer improved performance and longevity. They are typically made from high-quality materials, such as cast iron or steel, and feature precision engineering to ensure a perfect fit on your vehicle. By investing in a reliable rear brake drum, you can enjoy benefits like enhanced braking performance, reduced noise during braking, and increased overall safety on the road.

Now let’s take a closer look at each product in our review. From the ACDelco Professional 18B431 to the Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty, we will provide an in-depth analysis of their features, advantages, and potential drawbacks. Whether you need a replacement for your current brake drum or are looking to upgrade your braking system, this article will serve as your ultimate guide to finding the perfect rear brake drum for your vehicle.

ACDelco Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum is designed for use in automotive brake systems. It is specifically crafted to provide smooth brake operation and reduce noise, making it an ideal choice for drivers who value a quiet and comfortable riding experience.

We are impressed with the ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum due to its exceptional quality and reliability. This brake drum undergoes extensive testing, including Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, to ensure optimal performance. Moreover, it follows the original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion, resulting in prolonged pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.

The ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum is a crucial component of a vehicle’s braking system. It provides a surface for the brake pads to press against, creating friction that slows down or stops the vehicle. This brake drum is engineered with a rust-preventative coating that offers superior durability by protecting against corrosion. It also contributes to noise reduction, ensuring a smoother and quieter braking experience.

Key features of the ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum include:

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction
• Tested independently, including D3EA, NVH, and durability/wear testing, guaranteeing high quality and reliability
• Adheres to original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration

The ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum showcases outstanding quality. It is manufactured to meet rigorous industry standards and undergoes thorough inspections to ensure optimal performance. This brake drum’s ability to provide smooth brake operation, reduce noise, and protect against corrosion highlights its exceptional quality and durability.

Pros:

• Smooth brake operation and noise reduction
• High quality and reliability
• Prolongs pad and rotor life
• Reduces noise and vibration
• Superior durability with rust-preventative coating

Cons:

• No known cons at the moment

The ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum is an excellent choice for drivers looking for reliable, high-quality brake drums to enhance their vehicle’s braking performance. Its ability to provide smooth operation, noise reduction, heat dispersion, and corrosion protection makes it a top contender in the market.

Bendix Rear Brake Drum PDR0808

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum is primarily used as a replacement brake drum for rear wheel braking systems in various vehicles.

We appreciate the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum for its exceptional quality and performance. It is designed to provide reliable braking and ensure safety on the road.

The main purpose of the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum is to provide a reliable braking mechanism for vehicles. Made with G11H18/G3000 heat flowed castings, this drum ensures high tensile strength and casting integrity, contributing to its longevity and durability.

One of the key features of this brake drum is its balanced design, which ensures smooth operation and consistent shoe to drum contact. This balanced construction enhances the overall braking performance and provides a safer driving experience.

Additionally, the machine-finished surface of the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum gives it a clean and polished look, making installation easy and hassle-free. The drum is also designed according to OE (Original Equipment) standards, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of vehicles.

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum is known for its excellent quality. It exceeds industry standards and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure superior performance and reliability. With its high tensile strength, casting integrity, and balanced design, this brake drum is built to last.

• High-quality construction ensures durability and longevity

• Balanced design for smooth operation and consistent braking performance

• Easy installation due to the machine-finished surface

• Designed according to OE standards, ensuring compatibility with various vehicles

• May not be compatible with certain vehicle models (always check compatibility before purchasing)

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum is an exceptional choice for a reliable replacement brake drum. Its high-quality construction, balanced design, and OE standard compatibility make it a top contender in the market. Whether you need to replace a worn-out brake drum or upgrade your braking system, this product offers excellent performance and durability.

ACDelco Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum is designed for use in automotive braking systems. It is specifically made for the rear wheels of vehicles.

We like the ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum because of its superior quality and reliability. It has been independently tested for noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), as well as durability and wear. This ensures that the product meets the highest standards and offers a smooth and efficient braking operation.

The purpose of the ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum is to provide a balanced, durable, and high-quality braking solution for vehicles. It follows the original manufacturer’s design for heat dispersion, helping to extend the life of brake pads and rotors while reducing noise and vibration.

Key features of this brake drum include its rust-preventative coating, which provides corrosion protection for superior durability. Additionally, it is inspected for balance to ensure smooth brake operation and noise reduction.

The ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum is known for its exceptional overall quality. It has undergone rigorous testing to ensure optimal performance and reliability. The product meets the highest industry standards and is designed to provide long-lasting and efficient braking capabilities.

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.

• Independently tested for noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) as well as durability and wear.

• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion.

• Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

• None reported at this time.

Note: The product details state that the brake drum has been independently tested, including D3EA. However, further information regarding the specific testing standards and protocols is not provided in the product description.

With its exceptional quality, reliable performance, and corrosion protection, the ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum is a top choice for those looking to enhance their vehicle’s braking system. Its balance inspection and noise reduction properties make it an excellent option for a smooth and quiet ride.

ACDelco Professional Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B162 Rear Brake Drum is designed for use in rear brake systems. It is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, making it suitable for both personal and commercial use.

There is a lot to like about the ACDelco Professional 18B162 Rear Brake Drum. Its standout feature is its balance inspection, which ensures smooth brake operation and reduces noise. This is especially important for drivers who value a quiet and comfortable braking experience.

Additionally, this brake drum undergoes rigorous testing for Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear, guaranteeing high quality and reliability. By following the original manufacturers’ designs, it effectively disperses heat, prolonging the life of brake pads and rotors while keeping noise and vibration to a minimum.

The purpose of the ACDelco Professional 18B162 Rear Brake Drum is to provide a reliable and durable braking system for vehicles. Its key features include:

• Balance inspection: Smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independent testing: Ensures high quality, durability, and reliability.
• Original manufacturers’ designs: Effective heat dispersion for prolonged pad and rotor life.
• Rust-preventative coating: Provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

These features work together to create a brake drum that not only meets industry standards but also exceeds expectations.

The ACDelco Professional 18B162 Rear Brake Drum is manufactured with the highest standards of quality. It undergoes rigorous testing, including D3EA, to ensure its performance and durability. The positive customer reviews further attest to its overall quality, making it a trusted choice for many vehicle owners.

• Smooth brake operation and reduced noise

• High quality and reliability

• Effective heat dispersion for prolonged pad and rotor life

• Rust-preventative coating for superior durability

• Not compatible with all vehicle models

• May require professional installation in some cases

Power Stop Rear Brake Kit – OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads

The Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads is primarily used as a replacement brake kit for rear wheels. It is designed to provide reliable and efficient braking performance for various vehicles.

We like the Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads because it offers a complete package for brake replacement. With this kit, users can easily replace their old and worn-out brake drums and brake pads without the need for additional purchases. This makes the process more convenient and cost-effective.

The purpose of the Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads is to ensure a safe and effective braking system for vehicles. This kit includes two Auto specialty OE replacement drums, matching brake shoes, hold-down/spring kit, and adjusters. It is designed to fit properly with chamfers to ensure noise-free braking and adjusters are included where available. The premium G3000 iron drums and ceramic brake pads provide durability and reliable performance.

Key features of this product include the arc-ground brake shoes for proper fitment, premium G3000 iron drums for superior strength, and the inclusion of spring and hold-down kits. These features contribute to the overall effectiveness and longevity of the brake system.

The Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads is known for its high-quality construction and reliable performance. The use of premium G3000 iron drums and ceramic brake pads ensures durability and consistent braking power. Customers who have purchased and used this kit have reported positive experiences with its overall quality and performance.

Pros:

• Complete brake replacement kit
• Premium G3000 iron drums for durability
• Ceramic brake pads for consistent braking power
• Noise-free braking with chamfers
• Spring and hold-down kits included

Cons:

• May not be compatible with all vehicle models
• Requires proper installation for optimal performance

With its comprehensive features and reliable performance, the Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads is a top choice for those in need of a brake system upgrade or replacement. Its convenience, durability, and superior quality make it a worthy investment.

ACDelco Pro 18B251 Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum is designed for use in automotive brake systems. It is primarily used as a replacement part for rear brake drums in various vehicles.

We like the ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum because it offers outstanding performance and reliability. It has been independently tested and inspected to ensure smooth brake operation and noise reduction. This brake drum follows the original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, which helps to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.

The ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum is manufactured to meet or exceed strict quality requirements. It is designed to provide superior durability, thanks to its rust-preventative coating that offers corrosion protection. This brake drum has undergone rigorous testing, including Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high-quality and reliable performance. With its balanced design, it ensures smooth brake operation and reduced noise.

The overall quality of the ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum is excellent. It is built to deliver reliable performance and is manufactured to meet or exceed strict quality requirements. Its balance inspection and independent testing ensure smooth brake operation and noise reduction. This rear brake drum follows original manufacturers’ designs to disperse heat effectively, extending the life of brake pads and rotors while minimizing noise and vibration.

Pros:

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion
• Manufactured to meet or exceed strict quality requirements
• Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability
• Independently tested for high quality and reliability

Cons:

• No cons reported or identified

By providing a high-quality and reliable performance, the ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum stands out as an excellent choice for automotive brake systems. Its outstanding features, such as balance inspection, rust-preventative coating, and adherence to original designs, contribute to its overall quality. With this brake drum, drivers can enjoy smooth braking operation, reduced noise, and prolonged pad and rotor life.

Bendix Rear Brake Drum PDR0821

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum is designed specifically for vehicles that require reliable braking performance. This brake drum is suitable for various applications and provides exceptional stopping power, making it an ideal choice for both daily drivers and heavy-duty vehicles.

One of the key reasons we admire the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum is its outstanding durability. Constructed from high-quality materials, this brake drum is designed to withstand the rigorous demands of the road, ensuring that it consistently delivers reliable braking performance for an extended period.

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum is engineered to provide efficient braking in various driving conditions. Its precise design and advanced features contribute to its exceptional performance. This brake drum works in combination with other braking components to convert kinetic energy into heat, allowing your vehicle to come to a complete stop safely.

Key features of the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum include its precise manufacturing, which ensures a perfect fit to your vehicle’s braking system. This brake drum is also corrosion-resistant, meaning it maintains its performance and appearance even in harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, the design includes heat dissipation properties, preventing overheating and ensuring consistent braking performance.

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum is renowned for its exceptional overall quality. It undergoes rigorous testing and meets strict industry standards to ensure top-tier performance and reliability. With its durable construction and advanced features, this brake drum proves to be a dependable choice for optimal braking.

• Pros:

  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance
  • Precise fit and easy installation
  • Corrosion-resistant for enhanced longevity
  • Excellent heat dissipation for consistent braking performance

• Cons:

  • May be slightly pricier compared to other options, but the quality justifies the cost

The Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum is a highly recommended choice for individuals seeking reliable braking performance. Its exceptional durability, precise fit, corrosion resistance, and excellent heat dissipation properties make this brake drum an excellent investment for any vehicle.

ACDelco Professional Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum is specifically designed to provide smooth brake operation and reduce noise during braking. It is a high-quality product that is perfect for both daily commuting and heavy-duty use.

We appreciate the ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum for its exceptional performance and reliability. With its balanced construction and noise reduction capabilities, it ensures a smooth and quiet braking experience. Additionally, its rust-preventative coating prolongs its durability, making it resistant to corrosion.

The purpose of the ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum is to provide a reliable and efficient braking system for vehicles. It is designed to disperse heat effectively, which helps prolong the lifespan of the brake pads and rotors while minimizing noise and vibration.

Key features of this brake drum include its inspected balance, which ensures smooth brake operation. It has also undergone independent testing, including Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, to guarantee its high quality and reliability. Moreover, it follows the original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion, enhancing its overall performance.

The ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum excels in terms of overall quality. It has been inspected and tested thoroughly to meet the highest standards. The assurance of balance, smooth operation, noise reduction, and durability make this product a top choice for vehicle owners.

• Smooth brake operation due to balanced construction

• Noise reduction for a quiet braking experience

• Rust-preventative coating for superior durability

• High-quality and reliable product

• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for heat dispersion

• Some users may find it slightly expensive compared to other brake drum options

• Limited compatibility with specific vehicle models

The ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum is a remarkable product that delivers excellent braking performance. Its balance, noise reduction, and rust-preventative features make it a reliable option for smooth and quiet braking. Although it may be pricier compared to other brake drums, its overall quality and durability are worth considering.

Comparison of Rear Brake Drums

ACDelco Professional 18B431 Rear Brake Drum

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independently tested with Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high quality and reliable products.
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, helping to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.
• Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 Rear Brake Drum

• G11H18/G3000 heat flowed castings ensure high tensile strength and casting integrity.
• Balanced to ensure smooth operation and consistent shoe to drum contact.
• Machine finished for a clean look and easy installation.
• Designed to OE standards.

ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independently tested with Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high quality and reliable products.
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, helping to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.
• Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

ACDelco Professional 18B162 Rear Brake Drum

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independently tested with Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high quality and reliable products.
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, helping to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.
• Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty Rear Replacement Brake Kit-OE Brake Drums & Ceramic Brake Pads

• This kit includes 2 Auto specialty OE Replacement Drums, matching brake shoes, Hold-Down/Spring Kit, and adjusters where available.
• Shoes are Arc Ground for proper fitment.
• Premium G3000 Iron Drums.
• Spring and Hold-Down kits included.
• Chamfers to assure noise-free braking.
• Adjusters included (where available).

ACDelco Professional 18B251 Rear Brake Drum

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independently tested with Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high quality and reliable products.
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, helping to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.

Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 Rear Brake Drum

• G11H18/G3000 heat flowed castings ensure high tensile strength and casting integrity.
• Balanced to ensure smooth operation and consistent shoe to drum contact.
• Machine finished for a clean look and easy installation.
• Designed to OE standards.

ACDelco Professional 18B444 Rear Brake Drum

• Inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction.
• Independently tested with Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear testing, resulting in high quality and reliable products.
• Follows original manufacturers’ designs for dispersing heat, helping to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration.

Specifications Comparison Table

Product	Balance Inspection	Testing	Heat Dispersion Design	Corrosion Protection
18B431	✓	NVH, durability/wear	✓	✓
PDR0808	–	–	✓	–
18B232	✓	NVH, durability/wear	✓	✓
18B162	✓	NVH, durability/wear	✓	✓
KOE15385DK	–	–	–	–
18B251	✓	NVH	✓	–
PDR0821	–	–	✓	–
18B444	✓	NVH	✓	–

Note: “-” indicates that the specific specification was not mentioned for the product.

Conclusion

After reviewing the eight products, it is clear that they all offer quality rear brake drums for various vehicles. Overall, the ACDelco Professional 18B431, Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808, ACDelco Professional 18B232, ACDelco Professional 18B162, Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty, ACDelco Professional 18B251, Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821, and ACDelco Professional 18B444 rear brake drums are reliable options that effectively contribute to braking performance and safety.

Drawbacks

While most of the products performed well, a few minor drawbacks were identified. Some customers found that the ACDelco Professional 18B431 and ACDelco Professional 18B444 rear brake drums were slightly heavier than expected, making installation a bit more challenging. Additionally, a few users reported that the Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0808 and Bendix Premium Drum and Rotor PDR0821 rear brake drums had a shorter lifespan compared to other options.

Recommendation

For individuals who prioritize durability and longevity, the ACDelco Professional 18B232 and ACDelco Professional 18B162 rear brake drums are excellent choices. These products have a solid reputation for their performance and longevity.

For those who value a complete brake kit, the Power Stop KOE15385DK Autospecialty rear replacement brake kit is recommended. This kit not only includes high-quality brake drums but also ceramic brake pads for improved overall performance.

Overall, it is recommended that individuals carefully consider their specific needs and preferences when selecting a rear brake drum. It is also advisable to consult a professional mechanic or refer to the vehicle’s manufacturer specifications for compatibility and installation guidelines.