Parking Brake System: Description and Operation

The parking brake system is cable-actuated and controlled by an independent foot-operated parking brake control.

The parking brake is a drum-type design mounted in the hub of the brake disc.

The automatic (vacuum) parking brake release system contains:
^ a parking brake release control motor attached to the parking brake control.
^ a parking brake release vacuum hose which connects the parking brake release control motor to the engine manifold through a vacuum release switch at the steering column.

The cable-actuated rear wheel parking brake operates in the following manner:
^ An independent foot-operated parking brake control actuates the parking brake shoes.
^ To apply the parking brake, press the parking brake control pedal downward.

The parking brake can be released automatically or manually.
^ To release the parking brake automatically:
^ start the engine.
^ press the brake pedal.
^ shift the transmission selector lever to a forward gear.
^ To release the parking brake manually:
^ pull the parking brake release handle.

A brake warning indicator:
^ is located in the instrument cluster.
^ illuminates to signal the driver the parking brake is applied or to signal a low fluid condition.
^ remains lit to indicate a brake system concern has occurred.