Need parking brake help...it won't stay up!

[n2stox]

I've searched and searched, and I have nowhere else to go.

So, first, let me say hello to the forum as this is my first post.

Secondly, my wife's P5 parking brake won't stay up, at all.

I had the thing out and "enhanced" the teeth in the locking plate thing, but that did nothing. The teeth are more pronounced, but it helped not one bit.

I adjusted the brake cable to tight and loose, and everything in between. No fix.

I called the dealer, and they want $140 for a new assembly. Trying to find a workaround.

I have noticed that when I pull the brake up and pull out on the release button (to further engage the lock into the teeth) it does stay up, so I might just need a stiffer spring in the release button mechanism. However, I have no idea how to get the brake handle grip off, or if I can even access those internal workings.

I see they sell aftermarket upgrades on this (the handle grip), so there has to be a way to get in there, but I need help with that.

So, it comes down to this:

How do I get the parking brake handle off?

If that doesn't work, where should I look besides the dealer for a entirely new brake lever?

And, is there anything else I should try?

Thanks for any help out there!

Jeff

 

[P-Funk!]

A used lever assy should work for you - it is not an comon problem for us... I 'doubt' you can dismantle to change the spring - but hey- why not try?

 

[AlturredMP5]

you're a drifter

 

[formerjackman]

try viagra...that should keep it up(laugh)(laugh)

 

[AlturredMP5]

sorry we're not being much help. but i think p-funk has the right idea.

 

[Metallic36]

If you go under the car, there is a cable that connects to the ebrake (thus called: the e-brake cable). This could be stretched, worn out, etc. and maybe need a new one? I'm not too familiar with fixing it, but that's just a thought.. I parted out a MP3 once and had to uninstall the e-brake cable before. Not that difficult, just gotta get under the car.

 

[P-Funk!]

If you go under the car, there is a cable that connects to the ebrake (thus called: the e-brake cable). This could be stretched, worn out, etc. and maybe need a new one? I'm not too familiar with fixing it, but that's just a thought.. I parted out a MP3 once and had to uninstall the e-brake cable before. Not that difficult, just gotta get under the car.

I don't think that is it. If the handle ratcheted up but the car didn't hold on a hill - you would be correct. I have to adjust mine because i park on a steep hill...

The handle has a toothed gear that 'holds' the handle/keeps tension on the parking brake cable/levers.

 

[pasadena_commut]

How did you enhance the teeth in the gear????

You have to pull the button out? Mine is definitely spring loaded, and takes a good push in to release. Sounds like the spring or whatever holds it may have broken. Take the assembly apart (again) and figure out how to replace the spring. (Look at the sticky at the top of the forum for the manual, it may show what the innards are supposed to look like.) If you can't fix it, then get one from a junk yard.

 

[P-Funk!]

^I think you mis-understand. I didn't mean change the performance of the teeth. I agree with you - the spring (for the arm) that holds the ratchet to the toothed gear in the handle assy is the culprit (i have not taken one apart but it makes sense).

I agree with your advice.