2+2: Heavy Brake Pressure required. Hand Brake just working.

[bhg]

i/Experiencing really heavy brakes, i.e. requires heavy foot brake pressure for brake operation. Appears to be without servo assistance but I can hear the servo working and there is no fluid loss. Replaced all brakes, servo, master cylinder etc. about 3 years ago, all fine then. Any ideas what the problem is?
ii/Hand brake just passed MOT requirements of 16%, (17%), any ideas on how to make it more efficient? Is there a modification that I can do to make it more efficient?

[DaveK]

You may believe that the servo is working but your description of the heavy braking says that it isn't. First check for me would be if you are personally up to it strip it and overhaul it, if not get it done professionally.

The handbrake on the E has always been a pain to get right. Make sure the compensator is free and adjusting correctly.
Fit the JEC handbrake cable as it is the correct spec.
Before the MOT which for me is the start of the summer driving period i loosen off the handbrake cable and yank the adjuster up hard to take up any wear in pads, reconnect the cable and adjust so the handbrake clicks about 3 times before being up hard.

Dave

[webman]

Regarding the Handbrake, I have published my Brother's article here:
http://www.jec-etype-forum.org.uk/etbb2 ... 010616.htm

[gingerdave]

Before you strip the servo have you checked that you have a vacuum between the manifold and servo

[jimbofm]

I would second that opinion. Disconnect the rubber pipe between the manifold and the vacuum resevoir tank and check it has a good "vacuum suck". After installing a new repair kit (master slave and servo) on my Series 3 the brake pedal was hard but poor stopping power, like if you try to brake with the engine not running. Turned out the rubber pipe was blocked with carbon and debris. Worth a check!