Problem: Heavy shudder upon braking

[jrsavoie]

The vibration did not exist when the drums were initially installed. Belief is that the one locking up caused it to overheat and warp. The vibration started recently, like just before the tie rod broke which had me focused on the front.

I would still see if I could find a place that turns drums.
I've heard a lot of stories about new,bad drums and rotors.

I don't know if cheap aftermarket rotors have improved, I haven't heard any stories about them in quite a few years.
But then, nobody checks them anymore.

The last bad drums I heard of, were a few years ago.

If you find somebody to spin them, I doubt they'll charge much. Especially if they spin true.

Is there a way to put them on a hub and hand spin them, just to check. Before installing?

If they're Chinese I'd definitely check them.