Brake Drum Lead "Rivit"

[Harry Walker]

This is just a curiority question since I don't think it is a mechanical issue. Does anyone know why or what the purpose is for the lead "rivit" that is in the hole opposite the inspection hole on the Z car brake drums? Mine is a '72 and I just had the drums turned and one of the lead fittings broke. I plan on just putting a rubber filler plug in there (same as the inspection hole) but what is the purpose of the lead fitting?

Harry

[John Coffey]

Probably for a removal tool. I just punch those out and drill a 1" OD hole, same as the opposite hole that I enlarge to 1". Makes adjustment a lot easier.

[Harry Walker]

Thanks, Thats kind of what I thought. Curious though that Datsun would fill the hole with a lead plug.

[Disco Bob]

i think it's for balancing....... makes sense