We have finally gotten around to start on the 56 Ranch Wagon. I have completely rebuilt a 57 Wagon rear end and now that I have steamed cleaned the drive undercarriage I can see there is a difference between the parking brake cables. The stock 56 parking brake cables are a continuous loop and the 57 cables are independent with a ball on the end. So I guess the question is; will the 57 cables somehow work in the 56 yoke or do I need to keep the 56 cables and hook them up to the 57 backing plates?

Thanks,

Rono

  Ron Lane,  Meridian, ID

When I changed the rear in my 54 to a 57 rear, the 54 cables worked without any modification.  Check the ends of the 54 cable to the 57 ends.  If they are the same, then all you should have to do is connect them.  You may have to readjust the tension.


54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

Thanks Paul. I think you mean I should compare the 56 cable ends on the parking brake shoe with the 57 ends. Makes sense.
Thanks!!
Rono

  Ron Lane,  Meridian, ID

Not the shoe, the cable ends themselves.  The cable connects to a swing arm that activates the shoe.  The arm end where the cable connects  are usually all the same for early (50's)  Fords





54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ