An axle beam (2) and self-contained drum brake assembly, particularly for heavy duty trucks, is disclosed. The assembly includes a brake spider (5) and actuating members mounted thereto via a mounting assembly comprising a mounting sleeve (40) attached to the brake spider by means of a second mounting bracket (44), and a first mounting bracket (42) securing a pneumatic brake actuator cylinder (30) to the mounting sleeve. A brake actuating camshaft (16) is positioned and rotationally supported therewithin. The disclosed brake assembly allows for numerous variations of axle beam and suspension arrangements. |