I have a 1954 XK 120 SE OTS - the brake drums are painted red. Car is Birch Grey. Every picture I’ve seen of the ‘54 Jag shows black brake drums. I’ve found one picture of a ‘57 with red drums. Has anyone seen this? I’m debating whether to strip and repaint them.
Thanks for any insight.
Brian
Red brake drums [ and other parts] area traditional performance improvement from the 50s. The car may have had a Saturday night competition history.
Taken one step further I have seen chrome plated brake drums as well, although scrutineers may not have allowed it.
I have red spokes on my Old English White 140 FHC. Like lipstick on a pretty lady. I’d keep the red drums.
I believe drums were always black on XKs as they came from the factory. After all, black is the best colour for shedding the heat - that’s why radiators are (or should be) black.
