Brakes Break - Need Parts

Why are the parts on this bus so hard to find? 
Yesterday, I got a call from the mechanic. They were able to get the back drums off (after they were seized in place some how) and now need parts. The parts they were looking for weren't local so they called to ask me. 


Here's what they needed:
Brake Adjusting Screw (211609209A) x 4
I was able to find this part pretty easy. Got it from Mid America. They're in Effingham, IL so even Ground shipping hits Chicago next day. 


Brake Shoe Adjusting Nut (113609205A) x 4
This is also called the Star Adjuster and some other names. Again, easy to find. Got it from Mid America.


Rear Brake Hardware Kit for a 73 - 79 Bus (211698537N) x 1
Okay, this one is IMPOSSIBLE to find. I went to all the usual places, googled and nothing. I assumed that I could get the pieces individually but I looked and looked and ended up with nothing. It was hard to tell what was even in this kit. The shop I'm at had a source though. Mark's Bug Barn. Because of this part, the bus won't be ready until after Christmas. 


Rivet c 4x7.5 (N0136331)
This is another one that is not carried in the usual places. Seems it's a rivet that was used in all Porsche, Audi and VW brakes. So, it's available, just not readily. I found and contacted German Auto Dismantlers and found that they just dropship the part from Porsche directly. Because of this part too, the bus won't be ready until after Christmas. I questioned whether this part couldn't be manufactured or just made. I mean, it's a RIVET! 


Anyway, yeah, this seems to be happening again where the bus is at a shop for a decent amount of time. 


joy. 


Casey