Parking Brake Cables

[hayesbcajh]

Can anyone tell me how difficult it is to replace all the parking brake cables on an '02 Voyager? At least one snapped and at least one is frayed so I'd like to replace them all especially since I live in the Northeast in a high road salt area. It doesn't seem like it would be too difficult but I'd like to know how long to expect to be outside in the cold as the temps here have been and should stay at or below freezing.
Thanks.

[Epistemology]

From what I've seen underneath and around old vehicles, you'll have one of these options: A single brake cable going from the handle to somewhere midway under the vehicle, where it links to two cables that hook up to the drum brakes. Or, two cables going from the drums to the handle. The former may not pass inspection in some states. However, most states are lenient as long as one part failure can't cause total loss of both parking and service brakes.

Dodge/Chrysler vans have pretty high ground clearance, so you could theoretically do the job without lift. However, you'll probably want to jack it up. To do this safely, you'll need to clear away any snow or debris and have a level surface. You will need something besides a jack supporting the vehicle for safety.

I have not done this job on your particular vehicle, but it is safe to assume that some dashboard disassembling will be required to get access to the firewall/cables. You'll actually probably have to remove your rear wheels to easily remove the cables from the drums (I'm not sure on this).

Have you looked in the Haynes manual for your vehicle?

Good luck.

[hayesbcajh]

I do have the Haynes manual. It looks pretty straight forward. But I'm trying to get a feel for how long it would take having never performed this type of repair. I'm trying to gauge whether it's worth it to have the dealer replace them for about $300 so that I don't have to freeze for however long it will take to complete. Parts alone from the dealer were close to $200. Autozone was about $130 but they said I needed to bring the cables in with me because they listed two different sizes for my vehicle. I don't like the idea of taking them off then running to the store then finishing the job. I would much rather have them in hand before starting the job.

[Epistemology]

I've only done this on a 1972 Ford Econoline, so I'm not sure how relevant my experience is to the Chrysler minivan. It took me an afternoon to do the job, but I only replaced the cable going from the p. brake lever to the place where the two cables join from the drums.

You might want to just get under the car, look at where they go into the drums, look at where they go, etc. See if it looks like you'll have to take apart a lot of stuff.

As someone who has a garage too messy to work inside, I also have to do all my work outside in the winter. Parking brake cables can't be as much of a bitch as rewiring your car.

[Epistemology]

Anyway, I'd just do it myself. Mechanics for hire often to terrible, sloppy work. It's not worth the extra cost.