2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Parking brake problem

[darkhorse]

My parking brake has been getting weaker to the point it won't hold on even a slight incline. Also the dash warning light often will not go out on releasing the brake. I can't find where to tighten the cable. Is there an easy way to tighten it up?

 

[ddunk]

I have the same problem. I'll be watching this one!

 

[JLandry]

Darkhorse,



Assuming you have rear disk brakes, then there's a cable tensioner under the truck on the driver's side toward the rear. Before you adjust the tensioner though, you need to figure out why it needs adjustment in the first place. It shouldn't normally need adjustment unless the cable was removed or replaced. It's possible the rear brakes are in desperate need of service.



From the Dodge service manual:



CABLE TENSIONER



ADJUSTMENT



NOTE: Tensioner adjustment is only necessary when the tensioner, or a cable has been replaced or disconnected for service. When adjustment is necessary, perform adjustment only as described in the following procedure. This is necessary to avoid faulty park brake operation.

(1) Raise the vehicle.



(2) Back off the cable tensioner adjusting nut to create slack in the cables.



(3) Remove the rear wheel/tire assemblies. Then remove the brake drums.



(4) Verify the brakes are in good condition and operating properly.



(5) Verify the park brake cables operate freely and are not binding, or seized.



(6) Check the rear brake shoe adjustment with standard brake gauge.



(7) Install the drums and verify that the drums rotate freely without drag.



(8) Install the wheel/tire assemblies.



(9) Lower the vehicle enough for access to the park brake foot pedal. Then fully apply the park brakes. NOTE: Leave park brakes applied until adjustment is complete.



(10) Raise the vehicle again.



(11) Mark the tensioner rod 6. 35 mm (1/4 in. ) from edge of the tensioner (Fig. 71).



(12) Tighten the adjusting nut on the tensioner rod until the mark is no longer visible. CAUTION: Do not loosen, or tighten the tensioner adjusting nut for any reason after completing adjustment.



(13) Lower the vehicle until the rear wheels are 15-20 cm (6-8 in. ) off the shop floor.



(14) Release the park brake foot pedal and verify that rear wheels rotate freely without drag. Then lower the vehicle.​

 

[darkhorse]

Darkhorse,

Assuming you have rear disk brakes,

NOTE: Tensioner adjustment is only necessary when the tensioner, or a cable has been replaced or disconnected for service.

Thanks for the information even if it's "bad news". Yes I have rear disks. I don't know the condition of the parking brake linings but I do know the cable was disconnected for service. See attached image of truck last November.

 

[JLandry]

... I do know the cable was disconnected for service. See attached image of truck last November.

That would certainly explain things!



Good luck adjusting,



John L.