mx5cartalk.com

Howdy,
I have an intermittent problem. The button on the handbrake remains depressed, thus locking the handbrake.
I've removed the plastic cover and can release the button by prodding the 'teeth' (tech term). It appears either the teeth lock together, or there's something wrong with the rod attached to the button.
I've lubed the teeth mechanism with no result. Any advice?
Ta
Bruce

Was there any adhesive/glue/gum holding the plastic handle on?
I have come across Lasers/323's (basically the same part) where that adhesive had melted and wicked up into the gap left where the folded metal edges meet inside the handle under the handbrake leaver.
The adhesive gums up the button from freely sliding in the leaver. A dunk in some acetone, a bit of jiggling and a spray of dry PTFE lube got them working again.

The button moves freely. Maybe some gunk inside the handle?

Its modified itself to drift easier.

But it doesn't release!
Obviously something is worn, but I can't figure out what (and how to replace)?

Iirc, its just a sheet Metal part made to be cylindrical.
A. Are you able to remove the handle?
If yes, remove it, and see if there is anything obstructing the button.
B. Does the button pull out if you pull on it? Or, if you stick something to it and pull?.
If yes, then it sounds like the spring inside is gone.
I BELIEVE the button is threaded in, so wrap something like a strip of leather around it and twist gently to remove it. I say gently because it's plastic.
This is just conjecture, but may help lead to the solution.

The button unscrews.
It's not the button which is faulty, it's either the rodded mechanism, or the gears at the base (I reckon theyre worn).

I've got a spare mechansism if you want Bruce?

Sent from my LG-H815

Thanks. I'll message you a bit later to discuss.

Thanks to smy for supplying a new handbrake.