1966 parking brake release lever

[lukedwards]

hi, i own a 1966 landau and i have a question about the parking brake release lever. i saw it in the owner's manual but my bird doesn't have one..also when i apply the parking brake, when i shift into drive the brake does not release..i must get down and press a small lever on the brake itself to release it...does anyone know where i could get this lever or any other suggestions..thanks.

 

[Joe Vandatta]

The release is accuated by a vacuum motor when you shift into gear. I have a 66 Landau and had the same problem. If the motor is bad I found you have to get the whole assembly to get the motor. I woild first check the vacuum line to the motor to see if you are getting vacuum there when you shift into gear. If you are, the motor is probably at fault.
Joe

 

[Joe Vandatta]

Luke,
I just found out that you can get the vacuum motor seperately if you need it at The Bird Nest in Port, Or.
1-800-232-6378
They had some made up to fit the emergency brake assembly.
Joe

 

[lukedwards]

Hi Joe, thanks for the info on the parking brake vacuum motor...I just ordered one from the Bird Nest...I let you know how it goes. I have another question maybe you could help me with. The last time I owned a T-Bird was in 1977. I finally bought another one a few months ago. As you know its a 1966...with the 428 engine...I'm not quite sure what fluids to put in her...any recommendations regarding...transmission,brake,power steering,and coolant fluid types ? thanks again. Luke

 

[Joe Vandatta]

Luke, I would ck. with your local parts house on the fluids.
Installing the vacuum motor is not easy as tou have to remove the air duct to get at the emergency brake assembly. There are three bolts to remove to get the assembly out. Then you have to drill out three rivets that hold the motor to the assembly.
I too have orderd one from the Nest--I have the assembly out, will keep in touch.
Joe

 

[Joe Vandatta]

Luke, I got my vacuum motor and installed it and my emergency brake release works fine.
The air duct that you have to remove to get at the brake assembly is the hard part of the job. Good luck,
Joe

 

[Joe Vandatta]

Luke, did you get your vacuum motor installed?
Joe

 

[lukedwards]

Hi Joe,
I haven't been able to try and install my vacuum motor yet.It seems like I just don't have the time to get to it. I've read the manual and your advice and will try to do it soon. Thanks,
Luke