Handbrake ratchet

[sparky11]

Hey guys,

The ratchet on my handbrake appeears to have given up the ghost. Button moves in and out OK, and handbrake lever applies brakes as normal but theres no clicking and the lever will not stay in position.

Anyone know how the ratchet system works? Or if its easy to fix/replace?

Had a gander at the Bible last night, but can't find any detail apart from normal handbrake adjustment- also done a quick search on here but can't find a definitive answer.

Its a shame as I think I had one of the few cars where the handbrake actually DID work!!

Any help appreciated,


Cheers

Mark

[ads]

Not 100% sure, but think the handbrake is off a Ford Sierra. You should be able to see the ratchet though the slot in the handbrake cover. Hope this helps.

[andy-w]

i had a similar problem...the spring had given up.
When you push the button in you are relying on the spring pressure to pull the ratchet out again...i tried packing the spring with washers to toughen it up, that didnt work. So i found a new spring (out of a 1968 lambretta clutch!!!) and it worked...handbrake is superb now!!!

[IPAddis]

The ratchet bit attached to a seperate bolt on the mechanism. Mine had sheared off! Fortunately I managed to remove the bolt and insert a new one.

Have to remove the centre console though which is a faff.

Ian A.

[sparky11]

Cheers,

I did hear a 'clunk' as it went so I suppose it could either be the spring or the bolt. Have to get the centre console off at the weekend, then.

Hope i've still got the tiny allen key for the Leven handbrake!

Thanks

Mark

[Ballistic Banana]

the Bolt broke on mine a few years back ( griffith) it was here



managed to replace it but a pain to get too.

BB

[sparky11]

Excellent stuff - nice photo BB.

Am I right in thinking the Chim has an access panel as opposed to your cutting the fibreglass on the Griff?

Also, anyone know what size the bolt is, so I can get one before the dismantling begins?


Mark

[Ballistic banana]

That is the access panel held down by four screws and some sealant, does look like I cut it out though doesnt it.
Sorry cant remember size of bolt..I think I used one I found in my garage.
BB

[sparky11]

Right - done it this weekend.

What a pain-in-the-ar$e job!

The bolt that holds the ratchet mechanism in place had sheared, but had sheared off flush into the thread. Meaning it was a complete b@stard to get out. Had to call a plumber mate with an angle drill in the end, but even that was tricky to use in the space provided. Its a real fiddly job, wouldn't relish doing it again- and nor would my mate!

Its one of those 1 hour jobs that ends up taking all day!

BTW original bolt was cheap mild steel, i've replaced with a much stronger one. You can see by the design of the handbrake why it happens. Its put under a fair amount of tension.

Thanks for all the help.


Cheers

Mark