Handbrake problems

Hi guys,

I just had a question regarding the types of handbrake construction available. I know that the mainly operate using a drum brake and cable, but aside from that what are the major differences?

I compared my corolla's handbrake (while moving) to my friend's holden handbrake (while moving) and while my car's back wheels locked up, my friends car only seemed to slow down without locking the rear wheels. Does anyone know the causes of this?

By the way I searched the forums for similar topics but found none and therefore posted.

Some cars use a cable and rear discs, and older Saabs have the parking brake on the front wheels.

Some rear disc parking brakes use a ratchet mechanism as part of the brake adjustment, that is if you NEVER use the parking brake, eventually your rear discs will go out of adjustment and lose effectiveness.
Otherwise, it could just be the coefficient of friction on the Holden brake pads or shoes. They could be old or contaminated and just not working too well. Every car I have had is able to lock up the wheels with the parking brake in pavement, although you really have to pull on the handle hard.

Thankyou for the quick reply very much. You mentioned that there was a ratchet mechanism used and that if the handbrake was unused it would eventually go out of adjustment. Does that include when the car is stationary or do you mean whilst moving? If the latter is the case, then by using it more often while driving, will they readjust?


Some rear disc parking brakes use a ratchet mechanism as part of the brake adjustment, that is if you NEVER use the parking brake, eventually your rear discs will go out of adjustment and lose effectiveness.