Emergency brake won't release

[Bookaray]

I just became the owner of a 1928 Model A coupe that has been sitting in a garage for about 15 years, and am in the process of trying to get it running. When we pushed it into my garage, I set the emergency brake. Now that I am ready to roll it outside and try to get it running, the release button won't push, and the brake won't release. Any ideas on what I should do to get it to release? Any help will be appreciated.

 

[Bob C]

Have you tried pulling the lever back a little as you push the button?

Bob

 

[Bookaray]

Yes. No luck. What do you think about taking the emergency brake rod clevis loose from the emergency brake handle to release the tension?

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Yes. No luck. What do you think about taking the emergency brake rod clevis loose from the emergency brake handle to release the tension?

That's what I'd do for now. Sometimes the parking brake isn't adjusted correctly and the handle gets pulled back off the end of the ratchet teeth. Check to see if this is your problem, otherwise I'd remove the handle and work on the bench.

 

[Bookaray]

Thanks. I'll try it.

 

[fiddlybits]

Also check that the metal plate that the lever goes through on the floorboard hasn't shifted and is preventing the lever from moving. (had it happen shortly after I got mine drivable.)

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Also check that the metal plate that the lever goes through on the floorboard hasn't shifted and is preventing the lever from moving. (had it happen shortly after I got mine drivable.)

Good point, and I'm glad you mentioned that.
I saw that exact problem on a car at the national meet, and I had to scramble to get his parking brake released so he could go on tour.

 

[Bookaray]

Thank you. I will check the plate.

 

[Bookaray]

Thanks for all the help. The pawl was stuck on the ratchet. I got it loose.