Parking/E-brake issues

[brhydock]

Hi, new FJ-60 owner and ultra newbie diy mechanic.
Having some issues with my e-brake, basically when I pull the lever, nothing happens. Tried to do some research online for this issue but have so far been unsuccessful and I need this thing to pass inspection.
Has anyone had this issue before or have some ideas on what to do?
Thanks,
Ben

 

[CarolinaFJ]

I had that issue on my 62. Turned out the there is a junction/connector (don't know what it's actually called) where the cable splits out to each wheel and mine had gotten all gunked up and wasn't working. A good cleaning and I'm was back to holding.

 

[red66toy]

I had that issue on my 62. Turned out the there is a junction/connector (don't know what it's actually called) where the cable splits out to each wheel and mine had gotten all gunked up and wasn't working. A good cleaning and I'm was back to holding.

The bell cranks. They can get frozen over time. See if they move.

 

[mwebfj60]

This pic shows most of the e-brake cable and connections on the rear axle, start with making sure that's all there...maybe lay underneath while someone operates the hand brake and try to see what's happening, or not happening.

 

[roadstr6]

Yes. Bell cranks live in a pretty shoddy environment. They get a lot of water, dirt, sand, road salt, etc thrown against them from the rear tires. The slurry makes it's way into the protective boots and into the hinged joint and over time they freeze up. Being made of two dissimilar metals does not help matters at all either.

 

[red66toy]

Yeah, its probably a good idea to pack them with anti-seize grease to keep them happy if you get a chance.

 

[brhydock]

thanks for the input folks!
i think it is the bell cranks.
i laid underneath the car and had my wife operate the ebrake and I saw that the cable coming from the lever jump but then nothing happened or moved further down the line. Im guessing the connections and bell cranks are bound up.
How would you all recommend that i clean those connections and bell cranks? I was thinking of starting with spraying them with oil like WD40 or a multi purpose oil, yea or nay?

 

[mwebfj60]

You can put some wd40 or other lube on the pivots then use a screwdriver or other lever to slide in here and pry out to unfreeze the joints on both wheels. A little wd40 won't hurt on the other joints, just don't spray any into the drum.

 

[morganism]

Then not the bell cranks, its the plastic holder/connector up by the bell housing. Is a replace issue, the plastic seems to allow rust on the cable.

Try pushing the split cable with your foot, releasing the bell cranks, and trying to break the cable free up front.