handbrake

[samuria]

had my mot today....
all brakes ok except nearside hand brake!!!
told it was not holding but off side was good...
what do i check for
thanks

[simmitc]

Check adjustment on the cable, and inspect to make sure that it moves freely and is not about to strip apart.

[bmcecosse]

Check for oil on the shoes - and is the cylinder going in-out ok when you press the brake? Slacken the handbrake cable, and then tighten the adjuster to bring the shoes in light contact - only THEN do you now tighten the cable to get the lever where you want it. It should lock both wheels at 20 mph on a dry road.....

[samuria]

thanks for that guys.
my job for tomorrow

[mike.perry]

Support the back axle, remove the back wheels and check that the ends of the cables are moving freely, apply some oil to the ends of the cables.
Adjust the back brake shoes and replace the wheels
Apply the handbrake and check that both wheels are locked, if not then release the handbrake and adjust the cables.
Apply the handbrake, check again and release the handbrake one notch. Check for equal resistance on both wheels.

[samuria]

all sorted now.
handbrake turns at 20mph roy

[bmcecosse]

Excellent!