Handbrake on MX5

[manmx5]

For many reasons my mx5 has been sat in the garage for almost 18months now, but now is the time to put it back on the road.

I have cleaned up the rear discs that were a bit rusty, had the pads out and cleaned them off, sprayed WD40 over the couplings from handbrake cable to rear calipers - but still cant get the handbrake to lock solid on the wheels.

I have also had a play about with the handbrake adjuster in the car - putting it on 4 clicks upto 8 or even 9, but still wont lock the wheels solid.

Am pretty certain i didnt leave the handbrake on whilst its been stationary, but maybe cable was already a bit knackered and having it sit for so long not done it any favours.

Are there any regular problems with these and if so wheres the best place to get a new one ?


Many Thanks

[MX-5 Lazza]

It's quite possible (and common) for the pistons to rust into the callipers. Are the rear wheels locking & releasing using the foot brake?
P.S. WD40 is not a lubricant. All it will have done is wash off any grease that was on there then dry up.

[NiceCupOfTea]

Calipers are prone to seizing even when being used regularly!

Have you tried the adjusters in the calipers?

Is neither wheel locking? If so unless both calipers have seized it may be more adjustment. Have you done up the adjuster on the handbrake handle as tight as possible?

[avocado]

You need to adjust the rear calipers, there's a hex adjuster under a bolt. Check a good manual for details.

[manmx5]

Thanks for the replies.

I think i have fixed it, it was the adjusters in the calipers