Oh, the joys of owning a somewhat obscure classic vehicle. The problem with the pin going through the hole in the backing plate could probably be solved by putting a washer on the pin to increase it's diameter so it wouldn't come through, but I'm concerned that the return springs might be longer to fit larger brake shoes and would be too loose on 9" brakes. Classic Industries offers 1963 Ford Thunderbird Conversion Kits, 1963 Ford Thunderbird Drum Brake Kits, 1963 Ford Thunderbird Drum to Disc - Front, 1963 Ford Thunderbird Drum to Disc - Rear, and 1963 Ford Thunderbird Four Wheel Disc. It looks to me like the vendors are selling kits that fit 10" brakes but saying that they also fit the 9" brakes. Classic Industries offers a wide selection of Brake Components for your 1963 Ford Thunderbird. That's what is in the kit that I bought from Melvin's and the mechanic told me that the "head" of the pin goes right through the hole in the backing plate. The ones in the kits that I see online have springs that sit ON TOP of the shoe and are held in place by a pin that comes through from the back of the backing plate, and a round disc that secures the spring.
![1963 ford thunderbird front brake hardware kit 1963 ford thunderbird front brake hardware kit](https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/wO8AAOSwPc9Wxloo/s-l500.jpg)
The shoes on my Falcon are held down by springs that go through the shoe and hook onto a fastener that protrudes through the backing plate. For pricing and assistance, call (602) 997-9285. 1963-64 Ford Thunderbird Front Disc Brake Kit 11' Regular Vented Rotors Single Piston Calipers W/ Pads Brackets, Hardware and Hoses To Mount to Stock Drum Spindles. Parts Search Part: Parts Summary: 1963 Ford Thunderbird: All Parts Below is a summary of our original parts and remanufactured products for the 1963 Ford tbird line. No one seems to offer one that is actually for the 1962 9" brakes, even though they say that the parts are correct. 1963 Ford Thunderbird Original Parts Remanufactured Products Dottling.
![1963 ford thunderbird front brake hardware kit 1963 ford thunderbird front brake hardware kit](https://www.larrystbird.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/B-2140B.jpg)
The biggest problem seems to be the brake hardware kit. I think that I'm going to order a full set for all four wheels. I checked Rock Auto's web site and they have Raybestos shoes and brake drums.