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MG MGA - Brake pulled jammed

Hi from the new kid on the MG-A block.
New to everything! Had the MG A roadster delivered 5 days ago, and have a lot to learn so expect some stupid questions!
I have pulled brake handle up too hard, so can't release it.
I'd appreciate your advice to release this.
I'm having an interesting time detailing (or at least trying to check its provenance! I'll post some thing about that later.
I'll open a couple of other threads about a couple of other more immediate items too.
Hoping you can help
Thanks
Tony
Tony Stout

Hi Tony

Welcome to the MGA community.

Just checking you realise it’s a quick release hand brake. So the button is only used to lock it.
Just put a little upward pressure on the handle and release. Don’t touch the button.

Report back if that doesn’t help
Graham V

Welcome Tony. Part of the anti-theft (old fashioned)device is the "fly-off" brake lever. As Graham says just lift it without the button.
If it is still jammed you will have to give the lever a good crack upwards. Maybe a squirt of WD-40 as it could be rusted if the car has been laid-up.
Good luck and don't hesitate to ask!
Barry.
Barry Gannon

The same thing happened to me when I got my MGA. I didn't even consider that it would have a fly-off handle. The driver of the delivery truck parked it in my driveway and applied the brake. I was so disappointed that I couldn't drive my new purchase because obviously the hand brake was broken and wouldn't release! Eventually I disengaged it accidentally, and it was several moments later when I realized my mistake.
Steve Simmons

Tony,
if you haven't already got a copy, if you buy and read and when required refer to, the relevant Driver's Handbook you will know things some owners, even long term owners, don't or have forgotten.

Paper reprints of are available, MGA, MGA 1600 and MGA 1600 MkII.

https://www.brooklandsbooks.co.uk/product/mg-mga-drivers-handbook/

https://www.brooklandsbooks.co.uk/product/mg-mga-1600-drivers-handbook/

https://www.brooklandsbooks.co.uk/product/mg-mga-1600-mk-ii-drivers-handbook/
Nigel Atkins

Drivers handbook is available online for free here

https://mgaguru.com/mgtech/books/books_2.htm#handbook

You should bookmark mgaguru.com as a very comprehensive site for all things MGA
Dominic Clancy

Get both, the paper version doesn't need good battery, the sun not on the screen or, and I know it's very rare in this 21st century, the device or its programs, freezing, failing or going intermittent just when you don't need more hassle.

Always carry the mobile device as you can wedge it under the rear wheel to stop the car rolling.
Nigel Atkins

This thread was discussed on 24/05/2020

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