My sons car is due for an MOT and I suspect that the handbrake travel may be excessive (8 clicks). I've checked the adjuster by the handbrake lever and it has no more travel. has anybody any idea about the most likely reason for this?
1996 Ford Escort TD.
- Thread starter harv54
- Start date
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I had a similar problem with a Mk3 Escort that I had years ago, now I'm no expert but if the brake shoes have plenty of life left in them then you may have a stretched handbrake cable, this was the problem with my Mk3 and replacing the whole cable was the only solution.
as with all handbrake adjustments, you start with adjusting the rear brakes up first THEN make any adjustments to the cable. that way an overadjusted handbrake doesnt interfere with braking efficencies.
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The self adjusting mechanisms on the brake shoes give trouble on the escorts, they tend to slip, you set the adjustment replace the drum and after a couple of uses of the handbrake, the adjuster slips, i'd recommend changing them if you removing the drums, should be in stock at your local Ford dealer
I've replaced both wheel cylinders , brake shoes both sides and 'adjusted' the primary hand brake cable with a spacer and everything is ok. I think it'll need new cables next time. The shoe adjusters seem to be ok at the moment. They'll be replaced next time. Thanks all.
