Handbrake cable replacement

[the_stink]

So this morning noticed that well my handbrake isnt really doing a very good job! sat in traffic with the handbrake on and the car is creaking and creeping forward.

had a quick look on GSF and I think this is the right replacement

731VG0250  HANDBRAKE CABLE    G2 Rear Disc Brakes 8/88 >7/92

also going to get a new expansion tank as mine is just orange and tellign the level of coolant is getting hard  and well it needs replacing!

[Ben Lessani]

Might not be a stretched cable, give this a bash first.

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=49436.msg1000233#msg1000233

You'll need something like this http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/laser-4511-brake-caliper-piston-rewind-tool-se/path/automotive-tools
(which you'll need even if you replace the cable)

[the_stink]

Might not be a stretched cable, give this a bash first.

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=49436.msg1000233#msg1000233

You'll need something like this http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/laser-4511-brake-caliper-piston-rewind-tool-se/path/automotive-tools
(which you'll need even if you replace the cable)

Cheers Ben ill have a read i thought there might be some pecial tool that i dont have that i would need 

[rubjonny]

prob wont need the tool as the calipers are self-adjusting usually, check the clearance between the pads and the disc before you spend any money.  if the gap is too much work the handbrake lever on the caliper by hand and it will wind the piston out for you. if it doesnt that means the handbrake mech is trashed and you need to replace the caliper.  the windback tool is more to wind the piston in when replacing pads/discs

[AudiA8Quattro]

I would buy the tool, while its all apart clean up the brakes and make sure the piston is moving ok.

[rubjonny]

well remember we're in the middle of winter, so i recon op doesn't want to do lots of work unless its completely necessary. id check the calipers first to see exactly where the issue is, then buy all the bits required.

dont get me wrong i would agree should buy the tool, strip em down completely then rebuild with new seals etc, but summat i would rather do in the summer rather than in the snow/frost

[AudiA8Quattro]

I wouldn't rebuild the calipers, just make sure everything is moving freely.
Its not a very involved job as you know 

[rubjonny]

yeah i suppose, not liek tool is expensive either! just depends on tightness levels this close to chrimbo.

i have a windback tool im happy to lend out to op if you anywhere near?

[AudiA8Quattro]

Tool is cheap if you don't buy from Camberley Autos 
I personally think the tool is an essential part of anyones tool kit.

[rubjonny]

cheapest place i found it:
http://www.vwspares.co.uk/product_info.php?products_id=1450

if it was me i would find mk3 calipers, rebuild with new vag seals in the comfort of the garage then wait for a warm day next year and swap over with new handbrake cables. which by coincidence is exactly what I did a few years back

as i say work the handbrake lever and watch the piston. if it doesn't move the mech is fecked internally and it needs replacing. obviously if lever is stiff or seized that's also a clue that Bad Things have occurred inside the caliper. with the cables i set them so there is a little slack when the lever is fully off, if you have run out of adjustment then that suggests the cables have stretched and are in need of replacement.

if you undo the screw at the back of the lever surround, pop it backwards then lift off you'll see the cables and the nuts. this is an easy job which can be done in the relative warmth of the car, so start there before you do anything else