Emergency brake

[erturkm]

Hey there, I have a small issue with my emergency brake on my 2000 Expedition XLT 2WD. When I press on the emergency brake, it barely grabs the rear brakes. I know the rear disk brakes work fine, but the emergency brake appears to grab very little. Is there an adjustment somewhere? I should be able to push that e-brake pedal down and that should hold the truck in place pretty good. But no luck with me. Can anyone provide tips or advice? I have 4 wheel disk brakes. Thanks!

 

[ELVATO]

I think there is an adjustment screw. I'll try posting something up later. You don't need new shoes?

 

[erturkm]

I think there is an adjustment screw also. But someone told me they are self adjusting rear brakes. I'm not convinced that applies to the e-brake though. They are rear disk brakes with calipers, and work just fine during driving. I replaced the rear brake pads not too long ago, and they still have plenty of life left. But its just the emergency brake that does not grab well. So my thoughts are that it needs adjustment somewhere...and I just don't know where yet. Thanks.

 

[ELVATO]

The arrow is pointing to the brake show adjusting screw spring. Right above it is the brake adjuster screw. Towards the top of the drum, there should also be a retracting screw, but it's removed in the pic below.



Just make sure that you don't adjust it so much that it's always on.

You could take off the rotor to gain access to it, and then have someone apply the parking brake to see how much it moves. You may need linings and shoes.

 

[Tom Nugler]

Are the cables OK?. The left cable on mine had seized due to rust at one time.
It wasn't until I had the truck in the air I found the left side didn't apply at all and the right would barely apply.

Tom.