Parking Brake not releasing when COLD outside??

[Darin Jordan]

I have a 2003 Tahoe with the typical Parking brake issues, but I'm also experiencing a problem with the Parking brake NOT releasing when it's below freezing outside. I suspect that the cables are freezing inside, but that seems like an odd problem. I've ordered a pair of new cables to replace the existing ones just to make sure that's not the issue.

Has anyone else had this problem? It's very irritating. To get them to release, I basically have to get under the truck and use a hammer and long punch to force the lever-arms into the release positions.

I'd appreciate knowing if anyone else has experienced this issue and what their solution was.

Thanks,
Darin
Renton, WA

 

[Sepiroth]

So far, not on a truck like ours, I have run into the problem of rust in the brake cable line as well as the internals of the parking brake freezing up as well. Rust is a mutha.

 

[Grebbler]

While my Tahoe hasn't had that issue, my S-10 did. Water worked into the jacket and froze the cable.. the rust comes into play when Spring arrives.:cuss:


I must have went through 6 pairs of cables. I am blaming the cheapo cables that Pep Boys sold me as they were the only place that stocked them. I would hope dealer cables are better and I vaguely recall a TSB about cable booties or lube for the S-10 that may help keep the problems from reoccurring with you.

Greb

 

[Darin Jordan]

I ordered a pair of cables from Raybestos that are suppose to have features to curb corrosion:

RAYBESTOS PG PLUS BRAKE CABLE, ZITRIL PLASTIC COATED -- This Steel Brake Cable Is The Most Technically Advanced On The Market, Tested For Strength, Fit, And Corrosion Resistance, Includes OE Style Brackets And End Fittings, Easy Installation

I'll install them and see if that does the trick. I may pull off the old ones this weekend just to see if they are truely the issue, or if something bigger (and more costly!) is happening...

 

[667theneighbour]

It has happened to me too. 2004 Tahoe. And others I know of. Oil the cable each autumn.

 

[Dahlar]

I have the same issue on my 02 Yukon..I haven't been using the parking break until I can figure out how to solve it and the snow clears

 

[Darin Jordan]

I received and installed the new Raybestos PG-Plus parking brake cables this weekend. The old cables did feel like they were somewhat bound up and the new ones are a lot smoother. I threw the old ones outside and will test them the next time it freezes outside to see if they are binding up. For now, things seem to be working well. Pretty easy install as well.