Handbrake Issues

[epipete]

I've just noticed that when driving the handbrake 'on' warning lights keep flickering on, if I put my hand on the leaver then they go out, but on removing my hand from the leaver it raises slightly and they come back on again! Closer inspection of the handbrake leaver action reveals that there is no resistance in the off position and so it 'bounces' around! I should have expected some cable/spring resistance on disengaging the brakes!

I still appear to have a hand brake function albeit I haven't tried the car on a steep hill, similarly I don't appear to have any binding issues, the wheels arent that hot to the touch!

Any thoughts as to what the condition and/or cure might be?

Pete

[Fredjohn]

Pete
The handbrake on-off switch is located on the side of the handbrake. It sounds like it is a bit lose: access is by removing the surrounding centre console.

Be sure to take out the window switches to get at the 2 bolts that hold it at the front: the back two are under the removable storage box.

Not too difficult, just the usual Lotus awkward everything in the way of everything else.

Also check the return springs for the cables (at the calliper end) are working properly: if handbrake lever has a bit of slack this could also be a reason for dodgy switch. If springs are OK, the cable is adjusted under the centre console (whilst you're there )

John

[epipete]

John, thanks.

The sun is out and, accordingly, I am plagued with a horrendous cold so am disinclined to crawl around the garage today but will look tomorrow.

I think that the issue may well be with the return springs, so that'll be the first point of call.

Pete

[GeoffSmith]

I had (well still have to be honest) got my centre console apart to get to the wiring and the handbrake lever obviously goes further down than normal as the light comes on. Had to tell the MoT tester to raise it slightly to put it out!

[epipete]

Looking through the wheel spokes while Maureen operates the hand brake reveals considerable more play in the OS caliper leaver than on the NS. I recall Dave mentioning something about the nuts 'winding' up with usage so will need to remove the wheels to examine further.