Brakes (Handbrake): Description and operation

HANDBRAKE

The handbrake operates on both rear brakes via two handbrake cables, a cable equaliser and an intermediate rod on the handbrake lever.

As the handbrake lever is applied, movement is transmitted by the intermediate rod and the cable equaliser to the two handbrake cables. Each handbrake cable pulls on a lever on the trailing brake shoe. The lever pivots against the brake’s adjuster rod, which forces the brake shoes apart and brings the brake linings into contact with the drum.

The cables are adjusted by the handbrake adjust nut that locates the cable equaliser on the intermediate rod.

A warning switch, on the base of the handbrake lever, operates the brake warning lamp in the instrument pack. When the handbrake is applied and the ignition is on, the warning switch connects an earth to the instrument pack and illuminates the brake warning lamp. In some markets, the central control unit performs a bulb check of the brake warning lamp each time the ignition is switched on.

Handbrake components

1. Cable/Console bracket
2. Rear brake
3. Rear brake cable
4. Cable equaliser
5. Warning switch
6. Handbrake lever
7. Gaiter