Jag e-brake handle question.

[Rolling Thunder]

The springload pushbutton release on my Jag e-brake handle has broken. The handle still engages the brake, but I cannot lock it in place. (I am now temporarily using small rocks under the rear wheels to keep the car from rolling away while parked.) Neither the Jag Workshop manual nor the CWI parts catelog show an exploded veiw of the handle itself, nor do they discuss how to disassemble/repair one.

Is this a repairable part or do I have to buy a new one.

If it is repairable, does someone have instructions/pics of how the inards are supposed to go together. I'm sure I could figure it out once I remove it from the car, but having a guide would make it go much better, I'm sure.

Thanks,

Keith

[Bob Putnam]

As I remember it, the button is soldered to a long 1/8" wire with a bend on the end to engage the ratchet pawl at the bottom. Remove the assembly and you'll see how it works. Prying the wire link out of the pawl will allow the button and spring to come out the top. I don't have a diagram (and I'm doing this from memory ) so if you need more help, I can take a closer look on Monday.

[Rolling Thunder]

... as long as the picture attaches properly, you'll be able to see what I've got.

[img] http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/d...akerod-med.jpg
[/img]

Good memory Bob! While my components are slightly different, the actuation is as you described.

It appears that the rod tip at the end of the bend has worn down to the point of being to short to hold the ratchet pawl in place.

I presume this is just from use and the friction created by actuating the brake, but it seems odd to me that it would wear so quickly. I found the receipt from when the previous owner bought it during his rebuild of the car. That was in Aug. of 2000, So it is only 1 1/2 years old with only approx. 4,000 miles having been put on the car since then.

So I guess I need to know if it is possible to purchase just the rod to replace the one that's worn. I'll check with the vendor on that.

But actually more important is the qustion of wether or not this is normal. Presuming not, what can be done to make the part last much longer?

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Keith

[Bob Putnam]

Keith,

I suspect that, in spite of being purchased "new" not too long ago, this was an old rechromed unit. When we were reconditioning old pieces, I don't remember ever seeing any major wear on the rod, just broken springs. But we've been making our own for at least 15 years and I've developed old-timers disease.

[Rolling Thunder]

Would it make sense to temper the replacement rod and ratchet pawl to harden them and extend their service life? Would there be any detremental side affects of tempering them with a propane torch and a bucket of cold water?

Thanks,

Keith