Introduction and a question

[Alexo]

Hello,

As this is my first post, I thouth it would be proper to introduce myself.

My name is Alex. I live in the GTA (that's "Greater Toronto Area", not "Grand Theft Auto") and drive a '97 Maxima.

Unfortunately, my automotive knowledge is severely limited and my mechanical skills are all but non-existant so I am apologizing in advance for any uninformed remarks or stupid questions (this is probably a good time for the super modders to snort in disgust and click the "back" arrow).

Now, if you're still with me, I'd like to ask for your advice.

Recently my emergency break cable got stuck (burned the pads ). Now I need to find a replacement cable (probably two of them) and the Nissan dealers probably think those are studded with diamods - according to the prices they charge.

Any idea where I can get those cables cheaper in the Toronto area?

Thank you very much,
Alex.

[jmd102]

Hi Alexo, I live an hour from you in Kitchener.
As far as the brakes go, do yourself a favour and purchase dealer cables. The quality and lifespan are unmatched by any aftermarket garbage out there.
Also have someone make sure the pivots on the calipers where the cable hooks up isn't siezing up. With the crap weather we get, i've seen it a thousand times on all makes of cars with the caliper arm sticking or siezing up. Have it checked out before spending the bucks on good cables and goodluck sir!
Mark

[Alexo]

Thanks jmd102,

Got the cable unhooked. Still sticks (quite hard)...

[jmd102]

Looks like caliper time...too bad. Oh well what can you do? Like I said pretty uncommon to replace for a 99 car.
If it were mine, I'd be pulling the caliper apart, getting a caliper kit if available and overhauling the deal. Should be saveable. If you have the time and some know how to do this, it might be worth doing, although rebuilt calipers are fairly reasonable. If the piston is bad and pitted, drop a rebuilt on her and save all the hassle...call it a day. Goodluck to you!
Mark