The parking brake won't stay down. It just slowly (grinds) up. If I position it so it's up against the side panel, it will stay, but it's not good.

Any suggestions how to fix this? Or should I hire a professional?

I also think the release parking brake handle is torn off, because I don't see it where I think it should be. Is there a way to fix this also? Do you think I can purchse the replacement at a local auto shop? Or am I gonna have to make a trip to a wrecking yard?

Picture of missing parking brake handle below:

http://danceusapro.com//images/1997_Plymouth_Voyager/missing_parking_brake_lever.jpg

Climb Under The Van And Try To Adjust The Linkage You May Need To Play A Bit . Careful There Get Rusty That May Be The Cause. If It Is Above You Need To Buy New.

The pedal assembly is what locks the brake in position. Sounds like the lock mechanism is shot. You may need a new assembly. You can read up on the system here to see if you want to work on it:http://www.autozone.com/az/cds/en_us/0900823d/80/1a/4c/b1/0900823d801a4cb1/repairInfoPages.htm

A new plastic handle? Can't imagine it costing more that $15 at the dealership. There's always junkyards.

Thanks guys.. I just read the fix/removal instructions and I think I might just take it to a pro. I live in an area where there are a lot of steep hills, so I should take care of this very soon.