Charlie,
When you install your cables, you will have to pull a lot of cable through the hanger, and still have to tighten up the threaded end quite a bit. That long spring will not be so long when you are all done. Without all the correct parts the cables won't go together right. You wont be able to hold the tension on the spring to keep it from knocking all of the parts off at the shoes. (yes..some brake wizard might jump in and tell us all how to do it). Once you get the brake rod,that should help 100 %. I finally got my digital camera up and running so let me know if you need some photos. Also, the cable ends on the vinyl are larger than the metal wrapped. It took a little persuading to get the ends to go into the metal bracket by the cable wheels...again...a photo might help explain. Let me know. Also, I would like to see a photo of your truck. Johns looks great. Mine..as the name implies...is IN PROGRESS....
Good Luck.
