I have a 1968 Olds 98 Convertible with a 455. I am having a front end shake and am wondering if I might have faulty drums. I was wondering if anyone knows where to get drums balanced? I am not opposed to purchasing new drums, if I know this will cure my problem. Thanks for any help in advance. Phil

 

I don't know how you can balance just the drum. Having the tire and wheel balanced while on the car might help. That is if you can find someone who still has one of those old tire spinners.

 

Thanks for the advice. I am not sure of any shops in my area that balance wheels on the car.

 

Highly unlikely. Probably due to a worn part in the steering/front suspension.

Start your search at the steering wheel and work your way to the wheels/tires.

Norm

 

I'll agree with Norm here. Drums often have balance weights spot welded onto them, and it is possible (though highly unlikely) that one could have come off. What are the conditions of the shake? Certain speeds or all speeds? Straight running? Turning? Braking? If the shake is confined to certain driving conditions that can help narrow it down. The reality is that a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering is in order.

 

These Drums are balanced as part of the HUB & DRUM Assembly -- and must be balanced as such............

The HUBS traditionally don't go bad -- and I have brand new BRAKE DRUMS and (miraculously) brand new HUBS & DRUMS !!!!!!!!!!!!

ALso a smart idea to go with American made Bearings & seals -- I have these as well......

Best to call me ---- CRAIG -- 516 - 485 - 1935.............

 

Generally a shake is attributed to tire and wheel issues, it can develope because of alignment castor setting similar to the wheels on a shopping cart shaking. Usually a brake related shake is a result of warped rotors or drums when the brakes are applied.

 

I agree here. Also most likely tie rods. Has it been aligned lately? A good front end shop should be able to give it a look over.

I would also check the tire balances. Most places have a lifetime balance if you bought the tires at their store and will not charge to re-balance them.

As mentioned above, if it "shakes" when the brakes are applied, that would be a warped drum/rotor situation as a result of overheated braking.

 

In addition to normal balancing, how old are the tires? Lots of our old cars have tires that fail due to age instead of treadwear. I would work the other way around - tires and then suspension/steering.