Handbrake Cable

[PompeyTim]

A couple of nights ago whilst getting busy with the wire brush I discovered the dreaded rot in the bottom the O/S trailing arm. After sulking for a bit I've resigned myself to the fact that it's got to come off for a refurb & have therefore spent most of today stripping everything down. All has gone well with the exception of one small bit.... I can't get the sodding handbrake cable seperated from the backplate no matter what I've tried. Even copious amounts of swearing haven't helped! According to the Sierra Haynes manual there should be a U clip, but there does not appear to be one present? Am I missing something here or being a bit dumb? Any suggestions greatfuly accepted!

[S2Andy]

Hi

I had this problem also. If you look very carefully on the outer cable as it emerges through the backing plate (brake side) there is a small conical spring clip. To get it off I used a small zip tie to compress the cone and the cable slipped straight through the back plate. Good luck. Andy

[PompeyTim]

Thanks Andy,

I've already removed the conical piece, but no joy. I guess it must just be seized in place & need a whole load more brute force!

[mep12345]

The conical bits are available from Ford still and cost 84p each inc Vat well worth replacing them when you take them off as if they don't snap they definately distort. If your Ford dealer can't find them PM me and I'll dig out the part number from the receipt - it took my dealer ages to be pursuaded to go and check his bins following detailed examination of the microfiche drawings.

"His excuse was we won't have them anymore!!!"