Wagner Brake Z160R Drum Brake Shoe - Front or Rear

Wagner Z160R Drum Brake Shoe Overview

The Wagner Z160R drum brake shoe is built for classic front and rear drum brake applications that call for an 11-inch drum diameter and a 2.5-inch shoe width. It uses organic friction material with riveted attachment and precision-ground surfaces to help maximize contact with the brake drum.

Wagner brake shoes use OE-matched friction materials and controlled surface finishing to support consistent braking feel in vintage Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Ford applications. The Z160R is a direct-fit choice for restorations and maintenance on vehicles such as the Oldsmobile 98, Oldsmobile 88, Pontiac Bonneville, and Ford Thunderbird.

Key Features

• Part number Z160R for identified drum brake applications
• 11.000-inch brake drum diameter specification
• 2.500-inch brake shoe width
• Organic friction material for traditional drum brake operation
• Riveted friction material attachment
• Primary friction thickness: 0.220
• Secondary friction thickness: 0.280
• FMSI number S160R
• Compatible with front and rear positions depending on vehicle application

Product Details

The Wagner Brake Z160R is a drum brake shoe engineered for specific classic-car brake setups that use 11 x 2-1/2 inch drums. Its OE-matched friction formulation and precision-ground construction are intended to improve friction-to-drum contact, which is important in older braking systems where drum condition and shoe geometry affect pedal response. This part cross-references Raybestos Brakes 160PG for the same application.

Compatible With 1950-1956 Oldsmobile 98, front; 1954-1957 Oldsmobile 88, front; 1957 Oldsmobile Starfire, front; 1958-1964 Oldsmobile 98, front; 1961-1964 Oldsmobile Starfire, front; 1959-1964 Pontiac Bonneville, front; 1959-1964 Pontiac Catalina, front; 1962-1964 Pontiac Grand Prix, front; and 1959-1960 Ford Thunderbird, rear.

Common Brake Issues Addressed

• Reduced braking performance from worn drum brake shoes
• Uneven shoe-to-drum contact in older brake assemblies
• Brake noise caused by worn friction surfaces
• Loss of pedal consistency in classic drum brake systems
• Service replacement needs for 11 x 2.5-inch drum brake setups

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify drum diameter, shoe width, and position before installation. This part is specified for 11.000-inch drums with a 2.500-inch shoe width, and fitment varies by vehicle year, make, model, and brake position. Inspect the brake drum for wear, scoring, or out-of-round conditions before installing new shoes, and confirm that the backing plate and wheel cylinder are in serviceable condition.

Because mounting hardware is not included, reuse or replace related brake hardware as needed during service. After installation, follow proper drum brake adjustment and bedding procedures to help establish even contact between the shoe lining and drum surface.

Quality Assurance

Wagner brake shoes are built with OE-matched friction materials and precision-ground surfaces to support consistent fit and braking contact in the specified applications. The Z160R is identified by FMSI S160R and is intended for direct replacement use in compatible classic drum brake systems.