Parking Brake Pedal

bowtie_pasta · June 19, 2010

Something changed recently with my parking brake. When I apply the brake the pedal doesn't stay all the way down, it returns a few inches. The brakes are still applied (I've tested it on a forward downhill), but I still think something isn't right. I think it may not be working as well in reverse. When launching my boat recently it feels like it rolls back a bit on the ramp. What would cause the change in the pedal? Why won't it stay locked down anymore? I've checked my service manual and can't find any info there.

Thanks!

gnet158 · June 19, 2010

You might want to check the cable release, it's known to fray or break. HTH.

bowtie_pasta · June 20, 2010

You might want to check the cable release, it's known to fray or break. HTH.

Thanks gnet158, I think you may be onto something. How specifically would I check this? Is it something I can see up by the pedal with a flashlight or would I need to remove the kick panel?

PS - check your PM's.

bowtie_pasta · June 20, 2010

I just was checking the pedal real quick and noticed I can actually pull the pedal back to the released position by hand. Seems I shouldn't be able to do this if things were working correctly.

gnet158 · June 20, 2010

If I remember correctly behind the E break there's an shielded cable that runs just to the left (it may go behind the kick panel), follow that cable back to a small metal end that is T shaped. Check the cable to make sure it's not frayed or damaged. HTH

bowtie_pasta · July 1, 2010

From what I've checked so far the release cable looks good. Anyone ever have a problem with the lever rachet mechanism or pawl in this assembly? I may be taking it the shop soon to get it looked at if I can't figure anything out.

bowtie_pasta · July 1, 2010

Well I wanted to report the fix on this. I took it to my independent GM shop today. Ended up being the parking brake release cable after all. gnet158 was right on the money. Trouble is I looked carefully with a flashlight while operating the lever and I could not see any trouble with either end of the cable. The mechanic said the fray was up inside the jacket and was keeping the release from fully releasing, thus the problem with poor engagement. Anyhow $79.09 out the door. Not bad I guess, even though I probably got gouged on parts. Really wish I could have got this one myself. Oh well, can't fix everything sometimes. Glad I took it in after all since I was about ready to pull the pedal assembly off myself for inspection which of course would have been in vain.

dogzapper · July 2, 2010

The cable on the e-brake on our 2004 Tahoe frayed and broke about three months ago. Apparently, this is a fairly common problem because my Service Advisor was quite familiar with both the prob and the fix.

We got a brand-new cable, black pull handle and strut ....

Part Number 15226272 .... Handle 4.594 List Price Unit .. $34.06

Labor, Install 15226272 .............................................. $46.95

VIP Client Discount .....................................................( $8.20)

Total Repair ................................................................$73.81

The emergency brake now works perfectly, thanks to a wide-awake service department and superb Service Advisor at Town & Country Chevrolet in Milwaukie, Oregon

Steve

bowtie_pasta · July 2, 2010

Thanks Steve. I appreciate you posting the numbers. Good to see my shop is right in line. I have been a loyal customer at my shop for well over 10 years and they have always treated me right. I always feel like I could buy the part cheaper, but I do understand a shop has to make a living too. Picking her back up tomorrow so I will be stoked!