36 Hand brake will not catch

[bgalla]

This is a stock mechanical hand brake. Pull back to apply and lock on. Push button release. It was working in a somewhat finicky manner after a full restoration on my 36 Cabriolet. Brakes etc. all adjusted according to the books. Now the ratchet catch at the end of the brake lever and pedal pull rod wont engage. The catch (what ever it is called) does not go up high enough to lock into the bracket teeth. There is some play in the connections but no enough to overcome and bring about a catch. Help! Bruce

[DavidG]

You might try some penetrating oil around the button in case the spring inside the handle is hanging up. Otherwise you'll have to pull the handle and check for wear on the pawl (ratchet catch) and whether or not the spring inside the handle is weak or broken. You can usually sharpen the teeth on the pawl to get a better bite.

[bgalla]

Thanks Dave, that was going to be my next try. Bruce

[TJ]

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The spring inside the handle is usually the culprit.