So if I'm understanding you correctly, you have a good, high,hard pedal- it just doesn't stop when you stand on the brakes. Did you cut the brake drums, rough them up or do nothing at all to the drums? If you did nothing, this is the reason for your issue. The compounds of the brake shoes these days require the drums to be at least roughed up or they'll take forever to seat.

Scuffing the shoes isn't really the answer, I'd spend your time getting the drums cut. Even when you're done with that the shoes will still take some time to "bite"- this has been my experience. What brand of shoe did you install- Hyster brand or aftermarket?