www.jec.org.uk

Hi,

This will probably sound ridiculous to most of the more experienced XJS drivers but since I'm new to this and I don't want to do anything stupid then I feel I need to ask the following!

The operation of the handbrake is giving me some grief. I have been following the operational procedure but i am having problems with releasing the handbrake!

When I lift the lever, hold in the button and release to the floor, the button feels as though it always wants to push against my finger and I cannot get the handbrake to release!

If anyone could possibly assist me I would be extremely grateful.

Cheers
Dougie

1993 XJS 4.L Coupe & 1999 Merc 3.2S class

the handbrake in an XJS s a complicated thing, and some cars have even failed an MOT due to the tester NOT knowing how it operates lol

right,

start with pulling up the handbrake, without the button pressed it will ratchet, with it pressed it will come up smoothly, when it get tight it will stop,
this is when it gets strange, as the handle will then drop to the floor even though the brake has engaged.....

it does this to stay out of the way for getting in and out of the car,

the flaw is, you cant tell if its on or not !!

to release the handbrake, you must grab the lever in the down position, pull up to the top with you finger over the button, then when it reaches the top push the button and let the handbrake down , you will feel the tension coming off as there will be quite a bit of resistance to the handle

the handle will now be down and the brake off, but as said, its hard to now tell if its on on not, only you will know this as the driver

the cars were originally supplied with a small clear sticker with red writing on it stuck to the inside of the drivers door quarter-light, this gives instruction on the operation of the handbrake,

reproductions of these stickers can be bought on ebay for a few pounds

hope this helps

BB

BB

Top Explanation!

May I just add that if it works, (and in my experience they are very reliable) the warning light on the dash is a worthwhile check before driving off........I tend to have a habit of not releasing the handbrake fully, and this has saved me from premature handbrake pad wear on many occasions.

Always assuming you can see the "dim as a Toc-H lamp" warning light in the first place.........

Regards

DH Dove

Dougie,

If you have a convertible, you have to use the handbrake in order to put the hood up and down. However, if you have a Coupe, my personal suggestion is to only use the handbrake once a year just to check it before the MOT. I've never found the need to use a handbrake in an Auto car. It's just one more thing to go wrong and to freeze on in the winter!

Paul

BB,

Just been out and given it a try and Hey Presto your details were spot on, seems that bloody simple now, many thanks too all, for the advice and thank goodness for the FORUM.

Cheers
Dougie