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MG MGF Technical - Hand brake failed MOT

Hi,

Any idea how I adjust the handbrake on an F. It has just failed the MOT with the handbrake being 14% "something". It apparently needs to be over 16%.

I think I may have caused it. I recently replaced the rear pads and discs. The guy at the garage said I should have done the following...

With the handbrake off, push in the brake pistons, then prime them using the footbrake, leave handbrake off until footbrake stiffens.

What I did was...changed the pads and discs - put the handbrake on first before priming the footbrake.

Will the procedures he suggested do the trick, i.e. push back pistons, leave handbrake OFF, prime footbrake.

Any advice appreciated.

Cheers
Derren

Hi Derren,

Yep, worth re-doing that part. That procedure ensures the pad is firmly against the disc before the ratchet inside the caliper adjusts itself up against it.

Sadly the handbrake mechanism is prone to seizing up, and there's no effective way of getting lubricant inside - replacement of the whole caliper being the only option.
Mike Hankin

The rear caliper pistons need winding back not pushing back like the front ones. There is a special tool - approx £10 - but you can get away with a blade or screwdriver to wind them back in.
Keith Williams

in addition some bedding in of the new pads with what will be a less than smooth disc surface will then add to the brake efficiency. It is NEVER a good idea to change any brake parts immediately before the annual test. Have at least 150 miles of use after fitting to allow full bedding in and return to best efficiency levels.

Accelerated bedding can be done with some left foot braking for fronts and some lighter application of the handbrake on and off, both whilst driving. A matter of just a few seconds application with a good ten seconds break between applications ensures bedding without overheating.

Rog
Roger Parker

How do I tell if it has siezed up.

Derren

If you get someone to operate the hand brake and you watch the rear calipers in turn - you should see the cable and caliper lever move as the brake is applied and taken off. If there is no movement caliper is siezed.

I would have thought though, if a caliper was siezed that it would have shown up on the MOT brake test been so different from side to side on the car?

Resetting the pads to disc and bedding in properly seems your best bet.
Keith Williams

This thread was discussed between 01/03/2006 and 02/03/2006

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