Technical Handbrake problem at rear calipers

[Xadryxil]

Hi,
At last MOT the handbrake was poor, apparently due to seized rear calipers (the pivoting part the hand brake cable activates). The MOT mechanic advised that I would need reconditioned calipers as the units are not servicable. Has anyone any knowledge on this? The handbrake is poor so I want to get it sorted out, but recon rear calipers are £££!
Any advice appreciated!
Cheers,
Simon

 

[fugly-wagon]

i would try cables first or get a second opinion

 

[Xadryxil]

I went to Kwik-fit and they checked it over. Apparently the driver's side is working fine, but on the passenger side the handbrake doesn't hold the wheel at all. The cable is fine and it is pulling the caliper mechanism "a bit" maybe just not enough. I was reading up on this on the net and it turns out that you need to adjust the slack on "auto-adjusting" calipers when new pads are fitted. New rear pads were fitted to the calipers for the MOT. Is it possible that the passenger side caliper just has too much slack before the handbrake activates it? Does anyone know if it is adjustable? The Kwik-fit guy thought it would be a main-dealer job. With experience of my local ones, not if I can help it
Cheers,
Simon

 

[multipete]

First try to slacken the handbrake right off,start the engine and press the foot brake about 10 times[with hand brake in off position].this will push the pistons out,now adjust hand brake cable to about 5 or 6 clicks.hopefully this will sort your brakes out if your calipers if they are not siezed........................

 

[Xadryxil]

Thanks for the reply multipete .
I had a good look at it yesterday. Turns out the auto adjusting cams on both rear calipers were pulled almost fully 'on' so that the handbrake lever couldn't move them any further. As you suggested, releasing the handbrake cable (on the handbrake lever, under the fake leather cover) allowed the adjusters to spring back to their 'start' position. Pushing the brake pedal didn't seem to do much, but repeatedly pumping the handbrake (about 50 times) gradually firmed up the lever (it was pulling up to almost vertical at first). Eventually I have ended up with a really strong handbrake, better than ever before! Result! Why my local mechanic, who I've been to for years for bits of work and MOTs, didn't know this I have no idea Nearly paid out hundreds for recon calipers.
Cheers,
Simon

 

[multipete]

Thats OK.I'm glad it was only something simple,as rear calipers are not cheap........ ....