mk1-forum.net

My release rod is bent.
Is there a non-destructive way to remove it?
Will either Grip or release knob come off?
What are my options?

I was able to remove grip using wd-40.
I was also able to spread the handle along the seam and remove the release rod.
I then straightened the release rod.

Next question re: the pawl (thingy at end of release rod that locks onto the ratchet).

Here is the pawl before I removed the release rod.


I believe the pawl needs to be reversed. When I did this and mechanism seems to work - pull handle to engage, depress button to release.

Can anyone confirm the orientation of the pawl?

Hi Roger, the white nylon knob may screw on, but most are just a press fit. Either way, if you can twist it lefty-loosey it should free up and either unscrew or pull off.

That handbrake has been modified to "fly-off" operation (lift and press button to hold, lift and drop to release) with a different pawl, and the bend in the activating rod. If you want to return the unit to conventional operation (lift to hold, push button to release) you will need a straight pawl, and either straighten or replace the actuating rod for a straight one.

Personally I have a flyoff handbrake in my Mk1 and while it takes a bit of getting used to after jumping out of another car, it is fun for handbrake turns on gravel, eg motorkhanas/autotests and is also apparently a great anti-theft device as most young blaggers have never encountered one before.

Matt (Maddog)

Quite recently, within the last year or so, there was a comprehensive article from someone about refurbishing the complete hand brake assembly

That's it Bob....... I knew I'd seen it because your article prompted me to replace the pull-bar, fixings and make new stainless trunnion nuts for mine

So... it appears I acted in haste! ... or you guys did not respond soon enough (just kidding)!

I now know what a fly-off handbrake is. This is good.
The previous owner did enjoy autocross competitions. I have articles and trophies to prove it. This is also good.
So... based upon your feedback it appears he modified the original handbrake and made it a fly-off handbrake. This is also good (for him).

So... not knowing about the conversion and how a fly-off handbrake works I tried to “fix” the “broken” handbrake. The rod was clearly bent and the ratcheting was not coming into play .. it was not functioning as I expected.

My options are :
1) obtain original pawl and rivet (and possibly a rod) and return to a “standard” handbrake
2) re-bend the release rod and get the “fly-off” handbrake functioning (as it was originally)

Since the original pawl is not available through normal suppliers I will opt for #2 for now. I can convert back later.

I have found several sources that a conversion kit would include instructions which may have included bending the rod.
Does anyone have any specifics re: the proper bend?

Instructions here:
http://www.minispares.com/article/Techn ... =c-ajj4019

I was able to re-bend the release rod and now the handbrake seems to function fine in “fly-off” mode.

Now I am looking for the pawl to pivot rivet #21A910.
On the right in this picture.


Usual suppliers and local store have nothing.

Does anyone know the type and dimensions so I can check rivet suppliers on-line?