Mercedes Handbrake

Hi
     Does any one else have a problem with getting the handbrake off I find it quite a stretch and when I release it I sometimes find the warning light on the dash does not go out and have to try again being quite forceful in returning it to the off position
   Alan

Hi Alan,

Could be that your seat may be set too high? That would force you to stretch further to bend down to the handbrake. May not be the case, but is this worth considering?

As best I remember without looking, the handbrake warning light is switched off by a wire connecting to the side of the handbrake mechanism as it goes down. This may not be touching the side of the handbrake mechanism properly as it goes down, so a poor connection means the vehicle says the handbrake must still be applied, as the vehicle is moving, and off goes the handbrake warning indicator alarm.

My Winnie's handbrake acts the same way at times so like you I have to do a double hanbrake release. I'll get around to inspecting the electrical connector myself when I have time - blow to taking it all the way back to the Merc workshop, despite their extremely helpful willingness.

Best wishes, Barry.

Also have a look at the mechanism fwd of the rear axle where the handbrake cable runs and the pressure on each hub is equalised (having a senior moment and can't remember the correct terminology for it) looking on Mercedes forums it is inclined to seize if not lubed regularly and this 'may' be stopping it from going down fully. Or as Barry says 'not enough reach' 

I got fed up with that happening on the Transit so disconnected the switch on the handbrake lever assembly.
I know when the handbrake is still on - van doesnt like moving off !!!

roli wrote:I got fed up with that happening on the Transit so disconnected the switch on the handbrake lever assembly.
I know when the handbrake is still on - van doesnt like moving off !!!

IMHO this is not a good idea. The warning is there for a reason.  If the handbrake is not released fully then the brake shoes will rub (gently) against the drums causing heat and wear - and you won't notice that small amount of drag.  If they are not rubbing against the drums in that situation then the handbrake probably needs adjusting.

On my Lancashire I get repeated warnings - it is not the compensator or any other stiffness in the linkage. I put it down to the length of travel of the lever from on to fully off and the lack of any stiffness in the ratchet. When I release the handbrake it is very easy to let go of the lever before it is absolutely fully down and then the ratchet stops it releasing fully and I get the warning.  It takes but a moment to release it fully.  Luckily my Boxer has hill start assist.

Hi
   As you say it may be a stiff linkage because unless the handbrake goes all the way down and the warning light goes out,the handbrake stays on!
  thanks Alan