Pinpoint Test B: The Parking Brake Will Not Release And/Or Parking Brake Shoes Drag

• Verify that the release handle and cable are connected to the parking brake control.

Are the release handle and cable connected? 

• Yes  : GO to B2  .
• No  : CONNECT the handle and cable, then TEST the system for normal operation.

• Disconnect the RH cable from the LH conduit equalizer, then disconnect the LH cable from the front cable.
  Fig 1: Locating Rear Parking Brake Cables

  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
• Disconnect the rear parking brake cables from the parking brake actuating levers.
• While holding the rear cable conduit, attempt to slide the rear cable inside the conduit.

Does the cable slide freely inside the conduit? 

• Yes  : GO to B3  .
• No  : INSTALL a new rear brake cable(s). REFER to PARKING BRAKE CABLE - REAR, LH  or PARKING BRAKE CABLE - REAR, RH  in this article. TEST the system for normal operation.

• Remove the rear brake disc. Refer to REAR DISC BRAKE .
• Inspect the parking brake shoes, hardware and backing plate.

Are the shoes, hardware and backing plate in good condition? 

• Yes  : GO to B4  .
• No  : INSTALL new components as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.

• Press the retaining tabs and disconnect the front parking brake conduit from the parking brake control bracket.
• Push the front parking brake conduit grommet through the body.
• Verify that the front cable conduit can slide freely on the cable.

Does the conduit slide freely on the cable? 

• Yes  : INSTALL a new parking brake control. REFER to PARKING BRAKE CONTROL  in this article. TEST the system for normal operation.
• NO  : INSTALL a new front cable. TEST the system for normal operation.