rear disk. does hand brake work

i have a 1994 ford escort. i live in canada and we just got snow a few days a go. i was in a parking lot and i was reaming on my hand brake and i was not getting any results. people have told me to get the calliper adjusted but people have also told me that they have done what i need to do and it still doesnt work. does any one know what my problem might be.

I was looking at a manual and it says that there is an adjustment to be made at each (rear) caliper after they have been re-installed. Like if you got new pads. Having never seen these 'in person' then I'm guessing that you have too much of a gap between the disc pads and the disc. Pulling the parking brake lever probably closes that gap somewhat but not enough to be effective. If you need I can get more info on adjusting the rear discs.

As far as adjusting the hand brake goes, it says to pull up on the handle until you hear the 7th 'click'. Using a deep-well socket tighten up the adjusting nut until it is tight enough to prevent the car from moving. Then it's adjusted. This may not help if the 1st adjustment need done though. You may need to remove the plastic console around the brake handle to get at it but an extension may work. You MUST use a deep well socket.

ya i figured that out over the last couple days i was going to get the callipers adjusted and i had that bolt on the handle tightened really tight on the handle. when i loosen it my hand brake was working betted then ever and i am now able to do rally turns like a pro. before i thought the tighter the handle the better it should work right. wrong when u do that u r lousing a lot of leverage and i never thought of that till i loosen it.

Good deal, so it's fixed, eh? That leverage is important. When I drove tanks for the Army there was a cam on the brake pedal where it hooked to the master cylinder. If it was adjusted just right to use the max leverage the cam offered then they were great. A little bit off and you should increase your following distance sugnificantly! Anyway, same pricipal.