Problem with Handbrake - Avensis T25

[Janisz]

I had super weak handbrake on my T25 so I wanted to tighten it up, I did everything right (removed back wheels and adjusted through small hole in brake disc & adjusted handbrake cable to 7 clicks) but still handbrake is no good. Handbrake mechanism is working and pads were good.

It holds when I put it in Drive (automatic gearbox) and doesn't roll forwards but as soon as I press gas pedal a bit car starts to roll and handbrake doesn't hold it anymore. Last year when my handbrake was completely rebuilt it was holding even when I was giving it gas. Also my mechanic told me to check handbrake on the gravel - drive slow, lift your foot off the gas pedal and pull the handbrake, if the back wheels lock and car slide everything is right. But mine barely stopped and back wheels didn't lock at all. 

I hope someone can tell me what I missed here, if not I am just gonna drive to my mechanic. Thanks! 

[paul9]

You adjusted the cable at the back of the handbrake lever in between the front seats? And seven clicks sounds a little loose for myself, I would generally go around five. Maybe you need the cable changed again, perhaps the one you had fitted was poor quality or defective?

[Janisz]

Yes the cable between the front seats. I had new cable and pretty much whole handbrake replaced last year and that service was quite an expensive one. I'll probably go to my mechanic next week if I can't fix this myself. 

[Stivino]

BTW, the handbrake on the T25 works on shoes, not pads.

Did you check the handbrake shoes and the mechanism within the drum?

There is a video here

1. First of all the inner cables must be free to move within the outer cables.

2. Then handbrake shoes must be adjusted properly.

3. Then the handbrake lever height can be adjusted.

Proving 1 and 2 are ok, you should have no problems.