Originally Posted by
LarrBeard
"In the end I believe it is cheaper, easier and safer to restore the original e-brake rather than try to rig up an aftermarket or alternative brake."
I concur with BMorgil. Trying to jury rig a 2WD version of an emergency brake is a much bigger job that replacing the original. In addition to a different backing plate, there is a yoke and cable rig that would have to be set up.
Try to go original. Getting it stopped is important, but making sure it stays where you left it is pretty high on the list of priorities as well.
My Dad parked the '48 one day on a hill and just put it in gear to hold it. Unfortunately he put it in high, and that didn't hold things. It rolled back and hit the side of another vehicle. It had an "L" shaped hitch on it and the hitch punched the door on the other car like the iceberg on the Titanic.