Ok, in yet another display of sheer brilliance, I've driven through my Ebrake and sheared the 4 backing-plate-to-xfer mounting bolts ... for the 2nd time.
As this is expensive (also pops the $80 brake cable) and time-consuming (not to mention frustrating & embarassing)... and knowing that I'm unlikely to get any smarter... I'd like to dummy-proof it to prevent future re-occurrence.
I would think the design should allow the ebrake to slip first (I'm glad it holds the vehicle, but geeez!). I'm surprised Toyota chose just four little 8mm bolts at such a high stress point.
Is there a stronger bolt/stud out there? Or has anyone drilled & tapped the speedo housing for the next larger size bolt?
Will this just move the point of failure to the xfer case or speedo housing?
Other thoughts? Experience?
As this is expensive (also pops the $80 brake cable) and time-consuming (not to mention frustrating & embarassing)... and knowing that I'm unlikely to get any smarter... I'd like to dummy-proof it to prevent future re-occurrence.
I would think the design should allow the ebrake to slip first (I'm glad it holds the vehicle, but geeez!). I'm surprised Toyota chose just four little 8mm bolts at such a high stress point.
Is there a stronger bolt/stud out there? Or has anyone drilled & tapped the speedo housing for the next larger size bolt?
Will this just move the point of failure to the xfer case or speedo housing?
Other thoughts? Experience?