Parking brake doesn't work

[melhilburn]

truck brakes work fine - stops great - When I pull the parking break it doesn't hold the truck - I adjusted the tension at the center of the truck but it had no effect????

[pestwagon]

my bet is that the cables in the rear (one or both) are rusted stuck and the brakes wont activate. Need to remove the rear brake cables from their backing plates and free them up if possible or more likely buy new cables...

[luvbowties]

Originally Posted by pestwagon

my bet is that the cables in the rear (one or both) are rusted stuck and the brakes wont activate. Need to remove the rear brake cables from their backing plates and free them up if possible or more likely buy new cables...

I agree with pestwagon. Often the cables just freeze up inside the cable-housings which run from backing plate forward for about 2 feet. Use penetrating oil or rust-buster & spray into end of housings and then pull-and-loosen several times; repeat several times as you will begin to see it move a tad at a time--then it should increase a tad more each pull. Soon, it should be completely free and activating your em. brake lever mechanisms inside the drums.

[melhilburn]

I figured out the problem - The cables were just too old and streched to activate the emergency brake - I installed a metal extender bracket on the frame so the cables effectively have a longer run - which took the slack out and now the parking brake works like a charm - cost me $5.00 bucks - I'll post a picute to explain better

[melhilburn]

Here is picture of my quick fix to get my emergency brake working until I get the replacement cables on.

[melhilburn]

Here is picture

[bschoolz1]

where can i find one whats it called looks like a tail pipe hanger ?

[luvbowties]

Originally Posted by bschoolz1

where can i find one whats it called looks like a tail pipe hanger ?

With something as important as brakes, why not buy something MADE FOR BRAKES? Raybestos, a known name in brakes (and clutch and many other auto parts), makes one. Part# H-1300 for $4.48. Check with your local parts supplier--they should have one in stock. Also Dorman makes one. Look in "HELP" sections in local parts houses for often no-name ones.
Good luck,
sam