Handbrake Dentistry.

R

raymond.harper

Senior member
My handbrake is becoming a bit of a joke. Yesterday my car started to move by itself! The handbrake ratchet seems to be missing a few teeth, it may pass the next MOT or may not so I have been looking at options. Secondhand ones are £150. I know you can remove the handbrake by bending back the metal on the transmission tunnel and I also saw the post about recutting the ratchet teeth. However, this YouTube video shows an E86 handbrake with the same problem. The chap took it apart, welding a piece into the damaged area, then recut the teeth. Perhaps, assuming I can get a welder, this may be a good option. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02APSZU0kWw
 
I've recut the teeth on an E53 X5 and the Zed, both in situ. The X5 could be done from the side of the transmission tunnel and, being side on to it means that it catches and holds perfectly. I did the Zed in situ from above and it's a tricky job; one of the teeth is a bit funny when engaging the handbrake (stays ok once there though.) Upshot of this is that I would say that, if you're willing to remove the lever, then just recutting is more than enough without welding in a replacement piece.
 
smorris_12 said:
I've recut the teeth on an E53 X5 and the Zed, both in situ. The X5 could be done from the side of the transmission tunnel and, being side on to it means that it catches and holds perfectly. I did the Zed in situ from above and it's a tricky job; one of the teeth is a bit funny when engaging the handbrake (stays ok once there though.) Upshot of this is that I would say that, if you're willing to remove the lever, then just recutting is more than enough without welding in a replacement piece.
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What tools did you use to re-cut the teeth please? Thank you
 
Now your asking; must be two years ago if it's a day. I think I used my Woolworth's Dremel knock-off and maybe the tip of a square ended file.
 
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