series 2a handbrake adjustment

[Gromit68]

Hi folks
I noticed my Landy not holding very well on steep hills the other day.

So, I've tightened the little square adjuster up, backed it off one turn and tried again - she still rolls on the steep part of my driveway!

I'd like the handbrake to hold it easily on steep hills. What's the next course of action?

cheers,
Alastair

[Michael2]

Pull the drivers seat out and under the lid you'll see the threaded rod from the relay (pivot thingy) on the chassis to the hand brake. You may need to adjust that. Also ensure that the relay on the chassis isn't loose. You can also check for oil leaks onto the brake drum/shoes from the t/case seal. and ensure that the brake springs are in place etc and things aren't loose in there.

But I think that the threaded rod adjustment should help you if all else is close to good.

[isuzurover]

Firstly check that the shoes aren't contaminated with oil?

I usually adjust mine, then put the handbrake on, then adjust again, as the shoes seem to reseat a bit.

When working properly, you should be able to put the handbrake on, then try to (gently drive away) in 1st low and the engine should stall before you move anywhere.

[DeeJay]

Standard Land Rover Series handbrake upgrade kit

[JDNSW]

As Michael says, but check (either underneath or by removing middle seat panel) that there are no problems with the linkage. I have encountered a broken clevis and a broken threaded rod, and also the pivot that the bell crank turns on either loose or its bracket broken. It is possible yhe bell crank is seized on its shaft - it has a grease nipple but often gets missed when servicing.

A further possibility is the expander rusted up, although I have never struck this.

Properly adjusted, linkage OK, and oil free the handbrake is extremely effective, although it will overheat and wear rapidly if used for stopping rather than holding.

John