The 'E' Type Forum

Hi All,

I have just fitted the uprated handbrake compensator from one of our major suppliers. Originally the part supplied was useless but after contacting the supplier they supplied an updated version saying my original had faults. Along with the compensator I replaced the handbrake handle mechanism, the original was falling to bits (splitting apart), again from the same supplier. Now I find it takes almost two arms to apply the handbrake and there is no feeling as the handbrake is applied (feedback). Has anybody who has fitted this uprated Compensator had the same problem. I am wondering whether it is the new Compensator cable or the new handbrake mechanism?

We recently ( April ) fitted the compensator with twin cables to a friend's 2+2 . It was completely useless, incapable of holding the car even on the level, and as an emergency brake it provided no retardation whatsoever, however hard one pulled on the lever - even two hands did no good at all. So, it seems likely that it is the compensator and not the other new bits which is at fault in your case

I have fitted new handbrake cable, compensator, reconditioned calipers, pads and discs. I found I had to bed in the pads and discs. The setup now works good.

Hi Christopher,

You hit the nail on the head because I didn't mention the fact the new mechanism barely holds the car from movement on level ground a slight rise is impossible, requiring it to be left in gear as additional retardation? I think I will refit the original Compensator. More wasted work!

I fitted the handbrake mod I found out about and posted here 4 years ago and have never touched my handbrake since.
Costs nothing only a few hours work.

Dave

Hi,

Why doesn't it works? I just ordered one, to be sure for the coming MOT. Is it conctructional. THey must have tested it though.

Regards,
Richard van den Brand

christopher storey wrote:We recently ( April ) fitted the compensator with twin cables to a friend's 2+2 . It was completely useless, incapable of holding the car even on the level, and as an emergency brake it provided no retardation whatsoever, however hard one pulled on the lever - even two hands did no good at all. So, it seems likely that it is the compensator and not the other new bits which is at fault in your case

Richard : I am afraid I don't know why it doesn't work , although we thought that the problem probably lies in the geometry of the levers being such that there is insufficient multiplication of leverage at the pads