I am looking for some help with the parking parking brake setup on a 65, I am missing sever pieces (springs, adjuster, and cable end), I don't mind replacing them if it is worth it. I have already heard horror stories on parking brakes on older corvettes. Does anyone have a opinion on the the parking brake?
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Re: 1967 parking brake.
Brian----
I don't really understand what you're asking. First, you mention "1967" in the title of your post. Then, in the text, you say that you have a 65. These cars have totally different parking brake engagement mechanisms, although the actual parking brake assemblies located on the trailing arms are the same. There is no practical means of converting a 65 parking brake engagement mechanism to a 67 type, if that's what you're asking. If you have some problems with the parking brake engagement mechanism, you will have to replace whatever parts are necessary if you are to have a functional parking/EMERGENCY brake system.
If your question is in regards to the actual parking brake assemblies located on the trailing arm, these assemblies can be problematic, especially as a result of corrosion which is a major problem in certain parts of the country. I always recommend that the parking brake hardware be converted to the stainless steel variety. I did this on my car even though I live on the west coast where corrosion is not a problem. I also recommend using the parking brake shoes with stainless steel backing, although that's less important.
In any event, and once again, if you are to have a more-or-less functional parking/EMERGENCY brake system, you will have to restore and/or rebuild this system as best as is possible. There is no alternative.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: 1967 parking brake.
Brian----
I don't really understand what you're asking. First, you mention "1967" in the title of your post. Then, in the text, you say that you have a 65. These cars have totally different parking brake engagement mechanisms, although the actual parking brake assemblies located on the trailing arms are the same. There is no practical means of converting a 65 parking brake engagement mechanism to a 67 type, if that's what you're asking. If you have some problems with the parking brake engagement mechanism, you will have to replace whatever parts are necessary if you are to have a functional parking/EMERGENCY brake system.
If your question is in regards to the actual parking brake assemblies located on the trailing arm, these assemblies can be problematic, especially as a result of corrosion which is a major problem in certain parts of the country. I always recommend that the parking brake hardware be converted to the stainless steel variety. I did this on my car even though I live on the west coast where corrosion is not a problem. I also recommend using the parking brake shoes with stainless steel backing, although that's less important.
In any event, and once again, if you are to have a more-or-less functional parking/EMERGENCY brake system, you will have to restore and/or rebuild this system as best as is possible. There is no alternative.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: 1967 parking brake.
On the issue of aux brake performance, Corvette was one of the first to have disk brakes ('65) and its aux brake assy is considered by some mechanics as 'marginal' compared to later designs for both passenger cars and Corvettes. But, the parking brake is also the 'emergency' brake. In some states, you can't pass safety inspection without it being there.
Marginal or not (opinion), I know too many Corvette enthusiasts who have had that rare occassion to actually USE the brake in an emergency situation. If yours isn't operable, consider the litigation potential and exposure you place yourself in should you have a passenger in the car, need the feature/function someday, and it's later determined you knew of the 'defect' and didn't act to remedy it....Comment
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Re: 1967 parking brake.
On the issue of aux brake performance, Corvette was one of the first to have disk brakes ('65) and its aux brake assy is considered by some mechanics as 'marginal' compared to later designs for both passenger cars and Corvettes. But, the parking brake is also the 'emergency' brake. In some states, you can't pass safety inspection without it being there.
Marginal or not (opinion), I know too many Corvette enthusiasts who have had that rare occassion to actually USE the brake in an emergency situation. If yours isn't operable, consider the litigation potential and exposure you place yourself in should you have a passenger in the car, need the feature/function someday, and it's later determined you knew of the 'defect' and didn't act to remedy it....Comment
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Re: 1967 parking brake.
I have replaced the parking brake set-up on my 75 vette and didn't really find it difficult at all as long as you follow the directions that come with the kit. Don't try any short cuts, they will not work. It will take some time to remove the rotors but they do eventually come off. Mine were on for 23 yrs. I soaked them with penetrating fluid and gently tapped them off with a 5 lb. hammer and a piece of wood. I would call this a parking brake and it is marginal at best. I agree with the other gentleman that you should repair them because of litigation reasons should you become involved in an accident and an inspection is done. Hope this helps you to make your decision.Comment
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Re: 1967 parking brake.
I have replaced the parking brake set-up on my 75 vette and didn't really find it difficult at all as long as you follow the directions that come with the kit. Don't try any short cuts, they will not work. It will take some time to remove the rotors but they do eventually come off. Mine were on for 23 yrs. I soaked them with penetrating fluid and gently tapped them off with a 5 lb. hammer and a piece of wood. I would call this a parking brake and it is marginal at best. I agree with the other gentleman that you should repair them because of litigation reasons should you become involved in an accident and an inspection is done. Hope this helps you to make your decision.Comment
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