Parking Brake

The parking brake is actuated by means of a conventional handbrake lever. The handbrake lever is located on the center console and bolted to the floor pan.

The parking brake is equipped with an automatic cable adjuster (ASZE) and a compensating element.

Fig 1: Identifying Parking Brake Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The mounting clip locks the cables in the compensating element. The duo-servo brakes correspond to the duo-servo brakes of the E65 (dia. 185 x 30 mm).

The function of the ASZE is to adjust the handbrake cables and compensate longitudinal variations and settling. It does not however adjust the wear on the duo-servo brake. This must, as before, be adjusted at the expander lock in the brake. The function of the compensating element is to distribute the actuating force uniformly to both handbrake cables.

Fig 2: Identifying ASZE Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Notes for Service:

If there is a cable break, the automatic cable adjuster is in the most untensioned position.

Fig 3: Identifying Position Of ASZE In Event Of Cable Break

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removing the cables:

To replace the cables, it is necessary to remove the center console and the rear compartment ventilation ducts.
For the cables to be removed, the parking-brake lever must be in the released position.
For the cables or the duo-servo brakes to be changed, the ASZE unit must be deactivated.

Deactivating the ASZE unit:

A screwdriver must be used to press back the locking clip of the tensioning spring until the locking hook engages the locking clip of the tensioning spring.

Fig 4: Deactivating ASZE Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The cables can now be disconnected from the duo-servo brakes. To be able to disconnect the cables, it is necessary to remove the mounting clip.

Fig 5: Identifying Operating Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installing the cables:

For the cables to be installed, the parking-brake lever must be in the "released" position. The cables do not automatically feed themselves into the compensating element on insertion but rather must be guided with a screwdriver into the correct position.
To secure the cables in the compensating element, it is necessary to attach the mounting clip.
The cables are connected to the duo-servo brakes.
The ASZE can be reactivated by levering the locking hook out of the locking clip.

Adjusting the duo-servo brakes:

The basic clearance of the duo-servo brake is adjusted at the adjusting screw of the duoservo brake shoes. The parking brake is automatically adjusted when the ASZE unit is activated.