E-Brake Issues

[TFJ-4runner]

As some of you know I recently purchased a new 4runner. The E Brake was incredibly stiff to pull on. I never went to engage it until yesterday when I took on wheeling for the first time. I did it instinctively and ripped it with both hand and it broke loose. It engaged and the vehicle didn't move once I released the brake pedal. When it came time to release it did "I think" but the cable has no tension it seems because the handle is loose now. So I suspect its stuck engaged and can feel it. I wore the pads down enough in the rear so they don't touch anymore it feels like. So does anyone know how to tell and if so how to break it loose. Pictures Appreciated

Thanks in advance

 

[Nelsonmd]

Chances are your bell cranks are corroded and you have locked it in the engaged position.

The bell cranks and pins are steel, and the bellcrank mount is aluminum. You get some nasty corrosion in there and they lock up pretty easily. For now if I were you, I'd just remove the parking brake entirely (just remove the bellcranks, leave the cable hanging there). You can take some time to disassemble and clean the bell cranks. When you do, reassemble them, then fill the bellcrank boots with grease. That should hopefully reduce future corrosion.

BTW, depending on your level of corrosion, the pins maybe extremely stuck. I had to use a press on both sets that I have worked on (2 different vehicles), and even then, they didn't come out real easy.

 

[cfranck1]

I agree, check the bell cranks.

Here is a write up on how to clean them up.

http://www.tundrasolutions.com/foru...-toyota-truck-park-brake-bellcrank-repair.pdf

 

[TFJ-4runner]

This is exactly what I was looking for and I'm completely sure this is what the problem is. Thank you both for this information. Is there a danger driving the vehicle in this state. I don't feel much resistance currently after driving it and wearing it down. I plan to replace all brakes anyways.