On an average-size vehicle, a moderately brisk stop from 60 MPH generates enough heat to MELT a 9" cast iron skillet. That's why it's important to keep the brakes well-ventilated to dissipate the heat as quickly as the drums absorb it. When 57 Chevy cars went to 14" wheels without cooling slots between the wheel centers and the barrel part of the wheel, brake fade and rapid wear problems started showing up pretty regularly. Full-diameter wheel covers on the Bel Air instead of the small dog dish hubcaps on the economy models really made the problems noticeable. 55 and 56 cars with 15" wheels and exactly the same brake systems didn't have the problems the 57's did. The only real difference was the wheel diameter!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!