No Ebrake

[kcackler]

What's wrong with my E-Brake? When I push the pedal down, there is absolutely no resistance. When I pull the release, it doesn't pop back up, either. I have to actually pull the release and then pull the pedal back up.

It's not a huge issue but is a bit annoying. I'm not even entirely sure that the brake engages when I do push down on the pedal.

[Mikec10]

Sounds like the cable could have snapped somewhere, you could also look under the dash at the pedal assembly and see if everything looks okay or if somethings off

[kcackler]

It's connected at the pedal, so it probably is a break somewhere in the cable. The replacement cable is cheap enough on rockauto. May order it this week....

Thanks

[kcackler]

OK - So I got under the truck today and the cable is intact on both sides, all the way back, so far as I can tell. However, it is really floppy and loose feeling, which I'm sure is where I'm getting the spongy pedal from.

So can it be tightened up or do I need to purchase a new cable?

[lilpoindexter]

THere's a little spring that holds the release...when the spring is gone, there's no clicking when you step on the brake...I replaced the spring on mine, and BAM, the park brake works again...

[kcackler]

Where did you find the spring? At the junk yard or what?

I haven't looked, but I bet I've got the same problem.

[kcackler]

OK - Went and played with this again today. Here's what I've got:

When I pull the release and manually lift the pedal (Because it doesn't spring back as it should), it instantly drops back down a few clicks. There is absolutely no tension trying to pull it back up.

At the same time - My parking break does not work, even if I push the pedal to the floor.

Do I have a combination of issues here? I'm thinking a new cable is a reasonable investment anyway, since they're so cheap, but I don't know what to do about the pedal dropping.

[72lb4x4]

I'd guess you have a combination of problems. Making the potentially invalid assumption that GM ebrake designs will be similar, my experience is with a 71 Camaro.

I needed a new front cable, and various hardware including the spring under the car. Several bits were missing so I had to figure out how things went together.

After assembling, adjusting and messing around with it I shortened the spring to make the pedal return the way I think it should.

There's also a small spring in the pedal mechanism that keeps the ratchet action working as mentioned by another poster. It doesn't sound like this is the problem.

I'd get under it, look at thinggs wgen the brake is released, and then look again w/ the pedal down. You may have a stretched cable and missing spring, or missing guide hook(s), etc. There's probably at least a guide hook on the pass. side to make the cable run sort of straight back on that side.

Try to find a drawing in the manual, or pics of what the cable layout is with any springs or hooks under the truck.

[motornut]

up here the cables sieze all the time.(salt/rust)
seen some ppl leave out the steel piece between the rear shoes
if you get pulled over for a dot check it's the frist thing they check