SL/R230: Parking brake works but will not latch
#1
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 43
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1998 SL500, 2004 SL500, 1966 Mustang GT convertible, 2009 Jeep Wrangler 4 door limited X,
Parking brake works but will not latch
My R230 parking brake works but does not stay latched. It makes the clicking sound when pushed down but will not stay down. Is there a spring broken preventing it from latching? The release handle does not have tension on it.
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larryvegas (08-07-2022)
#2
Sounds like the cable to the parking brake release handle is somehow stuck in the engaged position and not releasing .This cable runs from the Parking Brake release handle to the parking brake foot pedal mechanism. It has either dislodged itself, the retaining pin at the end has snapped off, or most likely, the cable has crudded up and needs a healthy shot of WD40 to free it. You''ll need to release the cable from the foot pedal end 1st so that you can pull the release handle out with the cable attached for inspection and lubrication or replacement. It's a simple basic $12 cable,
Here is a picture of the cable and how it's attached to the handle.
Here is a picture of the cable and how it's attached to the handle.
Last edited by Aussiesuede; 08-03-2018 at 03:41 PM.
#3
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jun 2015
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1998 SL500, 2004 SL500, 1966 Mustang GT convertible, 2009 Jeep Wrangler 4 door limited X,
Thank you for the response. The cable is in the handle and the the other end of the cable is attached to the cam. The handle pulls out 3/4" but has no resistance. Even though the ratchet clicks it does not engage. I do not know how easy it is to remove the assembly.
#4
So before attempting disassembly, I'd suggest dousing the pedal mechanism with WD40,. If lubrication doesn't solve the problem, then the pedal assembly may need replacing, about $200 for the part.
Parking Brake Pedal Assembly
For your sake, I hope that my understanding of your experience is as I've noted above and that the actual brakes are engaging when you press the pedal and then immediately disengaging when you release the pedal. Because it's a real bugger of a problem if the brakes themselves are not engaging as that adjustment requires disassembly of both the exhaust and drivetrain components to access the parking brake adjustment mechanism.
#5
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 43
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1998 SL500, 2004 SL500, 1966 Mustang GT convertible, 2009 Jeep Wrangler 4 door limited X,
Thank you for the response, the parking brake does function, it does not stay in a locked position. I bought the car at a Barrett Jackson auction (mistake). The car had a clean car fax and the exterior was almost perfect. I have been chasing issues ever since I purchased the car. I repalced the alternator, the hydraulic pump, three of the hydraulic cylinders, replaced the spark plugs and other issues. I am now down to the parking brake and a driveline vibration at 2000 rpm. It is most apparent on third gear. The moter mounts appear to be ok, not leaking and were replaced 35k ago. The transmission mount appears to be ok. I have a R129 that runs perfect and has 190k on it. I hope I can get the r230 to point that it runs a smooth and reliable as my r129.
#6
This is a well known problem with very easy fix. Read this topic on a sister forum:
https://www.benzworld.org/forums/r23...-question.html
If you have any additional questions, I'll be glad to help.
https://www.benzworld.org/forums/r23...-question.html
If you have any additional questions, I'll be glad to help.
#7
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Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 65
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From: Tampa, Florida
2003 SL55; 2001 SLK320; 2005 C240
I am the guy alk247 referred to in the BenzWorld link. I did buy a replacement pedal but ended up fixing the one that came with the car. I do have on operational spare if anyone wants to purchase it.
Tim
Tim
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#8
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 43
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1998 SL500, 2004 SL500, 1966 Mustang GT convertible, 2009 Jeep Wrangler 4 door limited X,
That was a simple fix. I did not know what I was looking for until your post. It slipped out of its location. It longer to remove he panel than to put the spring back into position. Thank you
#9
parking brake foot pedal
There is a metal bar(spring) that pops out into the release pivot. Just pop back in. just below release cable at pb asy
Last edited by oldschool35; 04-06-2022 at 01:18 PM. Reason: adding photo
#10
Latching problem fixed.
I tried to attach a link to the video that made it clear to me. The black plastic piece is the part that I forced back into its proper place. The small spring is the one I was discussing. The release lever pulls on the u shape on the top of the black lever.