MOT failure because of parking brake.

[SanaYusuf]

Hey guys

Just got car back from its MOT, it failed due to parking brake:efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)

Anyone know what could cause this, handbrake does work but doesn't hold evenly if that makes sense.

I did change my discs and pads recently and did have a bit of trouble with that little wheel you move up and down to loosen/tighten the parking brake behind the disc.

Any thoughts?

[SanaYusuf]

OK well I've had the o/s/r wheel off and could move it even with the handbrake on so I've adjusted the little wheel until the hub wouldn't move when handbrake applied.

Hope it passes the re-test now.

[oldcodger]

Think adjusting the handbrake never goes exactly as the text book says.

First I give the drum a good blast with brake cleaner and a brush to get rid of all the old dust/dirt, then give the shoes a similar clean.

I find its better to test /gauge the adjustment with the wheels on.

First I move the both adjusters so the shoes are biting hard, then back them off until both drums feels free.

Then I pop the wheels on and spin them by hand and then turn the adjusters one click  back up and see if the they become tight again, if so then back off one.

You might feel a little high spot as the wheel is turned one full rev, but I find thats ok.

Once you are happy with that then have you checked the actual handbrake lever, as you pull it on, one click at a time. you should feel the wheels just starting to drag on the 2nd click and very hard to move by hand on the 4th click, typically difficult to pull it on past the 6th click.

If it goes past 6 easily then you need to adjust the cable, whip out the centre console and you will see the adjuster down by the side of the lever, just a case of tightening it up and repeat the above sequence till you get it just right.

Do that before each test and its got me through ok every year.

[SanaYusuf]

Can just get it to 6 clicks now, seems much better.

[SanaYusuf]

Passed on re-test.

[oldcodger]

Nice one .....