Abstract: A metallurgical vessel supported on a trunnion ring includes a plurality of bracket assemblies, each having a bracket plate which slidably engages a shoe for movement during vessel expansion and contraction. A replaceable wear shim is interposed between the sliding shoe and the upper surface of the vessel trunnion ring. A gib assembly is mounted adjacent the lateral ends of each sliding shoe. Each gib assembly includes a gib block secured to the trunnion ring for clamping engagement with the wear shim, the sliding shoe, and the bracket plate. Tapered spacers are interposed between each gib block, bracket plate and sliding shoe to accommodate relative movement of the block and the bracket plate during vessel expansion and contraction. The vessel may also include a second plurality of bracket assemblies disposed adjacent the lower surface of the trunnion ring and engaging a lower sliding shoe.