Do handbrake cables snap?

[Dr Firefly]

I started a fifteen mile journey with a working handbrake - had to pull it up about 8 notches before it did anything.

Half-way through the journey I noticed a complete lack of resistance, could pull it right up to the top. And sure enough, now the handbrake is doing absolutely nothing, I've checked on a hill and on the flat.

Ideas? On a drum brake car, will it use the same pads - do I need to be worried about my rear brakes? I changed the pads and cylinders about 6months ago.

[handpaper]

If you have drum rear brakes, yes they do use the same shoes as the footbrake, but they shouldn't have worn out completely in six months.
Pull off your handbrake gaiter and check the adjuster nuts are secure, if these have come loose you won't have a handbrake.
Handbrake cables do snap, but you would normally notice this happening (PINGGGG!!). Besides, the e30 handbrake has two completely seperate cables, one for each wheel. It's unlikely that both would fail at the same time.
For tonight, chock the wheels and leave it in reverse. Check it out thoroughly in the morning

[Dr Firefly]

I just thought it might be useful for anyone searching for info if I finished off this thread. Finally got round to sorting the handbrake today. It was just that the adjusters (within the hubcap) were loose - tightened them up, and also bent one of the springs next to the adjuster slightly so that it would anchor the adjustor in position better. Handbrake working perfectly now. So the pads and cylinders were fine. If anyone ever needs more info on sorting it just pm me.

Ian