Re: '91 200Q hand brake sticking

["Peter Plangger" <pepe@z.zgs.de>]

I had the same problem with my '91 Audi 90. I think the rear handbrake
mechanism get seized if it is used too little. First time one brake
wasn't working at all, one time it made the disc gleam redhot and
awful smell from the brake dust because it didn't release completely.
Jack it up, dismount the wheel and move the rotating plate forth and
back a few times with a big screwdriver you can put in the hole of the
plate.
I got a detailed description from Alun Fair Alun@fairone.demon.co.uk
of how to overhaul the calliper if nothing else helps. But I didn't
need it yet (knock on wood).
As long as it's not fixed check if the car does a little braking by
itself before driving away to see if the brake is stuck. If so, pull
the rotating plate back by hand or with a screwsdriver by reaching
behind the wheel. You will be able to do it with the wheel attached
after a little practice.

If it should turn out to be the handbrake cable which I don't think,
disconnect it from the calliper, hold the end up high and let some
amount of caramba oil or similar creep in.

Peter

_/_/_/_/_/ pepe@z.zgs.de \_\_\_\_\_


>On Sun, 5 Apr 1998, rlpplsky wrote:
>
>> The hand brake on my '91 200Q is not fully releasing.  I have
noticed for a
>> few days that the lever has had 1" of play, but today after washing
the car,
>> there was much more play and the brakes are dragging severely.  I
am afraid
>> to drive the car for fear of wrecking the rear brakes, starting the
car on
>> fire, etc.
>
>Get under the car.  Find the mechanical part of the caliper that is
>actuated with the handbrake cable.  Gently (but you'll have to use
*some*
>force) tap it with a hammer, and it will release.  Likely it's just
bound
>up and a little rusted, so it is sticking.  This solution is
temporary
>most likely, as if you use the handbrake again the problem will
likely
>re-occur.  Anyone know the DIY permanent solution?
>
>---
> -Preston Brown
>  preston.brown@yale.edu
>