89 LXi emergency brake pulls all the way up and doesn't catch

[rebuild]

i need to have a working e-brake to pass inspection. someone just did the shoes and wheel cylinders said the cable was 'locked up' (not sure what that means) - just don't use the e-brake. is time for new cable? where to find?

there is a bracket back of the cable equalizer all behind the e-brake. if that bracket that holds the cables down is gone - would that matter much? the cables aren't as taut from that, but the adjuster nut can make up for it i expect.

[Dr_Snooz]

I'd pop the cap off the adjuster and see if the cables are indeed frozen. If not, then some adjustment of the cable or the rear brakes is in order.

[Oldblueaccord]

i need to have a working e-brake to pass inspection. someone just did the shoes and wheel cylinders said the cable was 'locked up' (not sure what that means) - just don't use the e-brake. is time for new cable? where to find?

there is a bracket back of the cable equalizer all behind the e-brake. if that bracket that holds the cables down is gone - would that matter much? the cables aren't as taut from that, but the adjuster nut can make up for it i expect.

RockAuto Auto Parts

if the e brake cables are truly stuck I think you can get all the new ones for it.

Just guessing since the rears are all new someone has messed with the cables under the middle console instead of adjusting the rear brakes every 6 months like there supposed too.

[Bullfrog]

On the back of the drum in the rear there should be a rubber plug that you can stick a screwdriver into that you can adjust the brakes with a star wheel.

this is whats behind the plug:
http://s.hswstatic.com/gif/drum-brake8.jpg

turn it till you feel drag on the brakes then back it off a bit.