Abstract: An apparatus and method for the loading and locking of brake shoe components of various predetermined sizes in association with dual riveting machines and for automatically applying and upsetting a predetermined number of rivets in predetermined locations in said brake shoe components to form and eject assembled brake shoes in a continuous cycle of automatic operation. The apparatus includes interchangeable and adjustable parts to accommodate the loading and positioning of brake shoe components of various predetermined sizes. The apparatus also includes means for adjusting the operation of the apparatus for the insertion and upsetting of different predetermined numbers of rivets in predetermined different locations of said brake shoe components, depending upon the size and type of brake shoes being produced.