handbrake light/not clicking in fault??

[baxter-e30]

i recently put an original handbrake grip on as it didnt have one.

now my handbrake only works when it wants too, ie. sometimes it will lockin in when you pull up and other times it wont click in. doesnt feel like the cables snapped though as you can feel the tension when you pull the handle up.

also the handbrake light is now constantly on since this has happened.

cheers, for any help

[daimlerman]

I would suggest that the hand brake lever has cracked at the point where it changes from being round(the bit you haul on with your mitt)to being flat,and the grip part is now pointing skyward,causing the ratchet to fail to engage.

Cure is simple and cheap,buy a better handbrake lever s/h for a tenner or so.

[baxter-e30]

Did you have the spring when you installed the handle and screwed the button on?

Check the brakelight make or break switch located towards the back of the unit as mine was loose and kept flickering/staying on.

i only put the original handle grip over the handbrake lever as the previous owner had this metal cover fitted.

i havent touched the spring and button. was a bit of a struggle sliding the grip down the gearstick so i think ive knocked something while i was wriggling the grip down the gearstick.

[Brianmoooore]

Sounds like the wire to the handbrake light switch may have become trapped in the ratchet and pawl mechanism. Pull off the gaiter and have a look.