Why not just adapt a newer complete brake assembly- - - -backing plates, shoes, drums and all, to the existing hubs and housing? You've got a choice of all kinds of 8 lug axles with the same wheel bolt pattern to choose from- - - -Dodge, Ford, GMC, International, and a few others. Many of them run the same Dana type 60 axle, which would be a pretty simple swap if you're determined to abandon one of the best full floater rear axles ever made.
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!