2001 3 Ltr Hand Brake Comes Up A Long Way

[prsgue40]

Hi All the hand brake on my 2001 s type 3 ltr (Vehicle id FM21457) comes up a long way. It seems to hold the car on a slope but I am sure it is supposed to lock at about 3 clicks on the ratchet. The MOT tester a couple of years ago remarked on it but the one this year did not. Thanks Bernie

[J44EAG]

Had this myself, Bernie.

Possibly/probably you will find that the ball and ramp unit within one or both rear callipers is seized due to corrosion. This activates the brake pads which are also operated by the foot brake.

Jack and securely block the car up and remove the road wheels. Dismantle the calliper carrier and remove the old brake pads. Then remove the calliper from the hub carrier. You can then work the lever where the hand brake cable attaches to the calliper. If the lever won`t move easily or not at all, then the mechanism must be freed off using WD 40 or similar fluid and worked until good operation is achieved.

Take the opportunity to fit new pads and get hod of a piston wind back tool. A Laser 1413 suitable for FORD can be got from Ebay or Halfords. Turning the tool handle when engaged with holes or cut outs in the piston running surfaces will wind the pistons back into the callipers and allow fitting of new thicker new brake pads. Note one calliper has a clockwise thread, the other has an anticlockwise thread. Apply direct pressure when turning the tool T-bar. Note pistons can also seize in the callipers due to lack of use or neglect of brake servicing generally.

Mike K

[prsgue40]

Hi Mike Thanks I will try to get to it at the weekend. Bernie

[prsgue40]

Hi Again Mike would the tool be a Laser 1314 rather tan 1413? Bernie

[J44EAG]

Yes, it is. Typing with me fingers crossed again! M

[SDRIVER]

Sorry to resurrect this thread but I have the same problem on my 2001 4.0 the hand brake lever comes up very high and was an advisory on the last mot, on a previous mot it came as unbalanced hand brake action.I overhauled both rear callipers with all new rubber parts and new pistons new discs and new pads and both cables seem to operate freely does the cable running to the handbrake tend to stretch and there seems to be no adjustment on this cable because I cant understand why I'm still having this problem any advice much appreciated