5 replies to this topic

[rsh1979]

Hello all, I am a complete Mini novice here and not afraid to admit it! I have a W reg MPI Cooper (not sportspack) and have kept it under lock and key in a garage as I want to look after it.

It passed its MOT 2 weeks ago (no advisories, bonus!) and I haven't driven it in 2 weeks. I went to take it for a run last night as I don't leave it for longer than 2 weeks without at least ticking the engine over or taking it for a quick thrash.

However, when I went to pull away the passenger side rear wheel was locked and wouldn't release even when I pulled away (I now know not to leave the handbrake on when leaving it for a long time!!).

Now being a novice I assume the brake and/or handbrake has stuck on, so looking for advice on what to look for and how to fix it when I jack it up (need to buy good trolley jack and axle stands first) and take the wheel off!

Apologies if this is such a trivial and small problem but I really have no idea, got a Haynes manual but doesn't really answer anything for me, just how to replace things, not fix things.

Cheers!

[jamesmpi]

Don't worry we've all done. My mpi has failed the last MOTs on the hand brake efficiency lol

Try holding the button in on the hand brake and pull it up and down repetitively a few times to see if it will loosen. If not then you maybe have to slacken off the adjustment screw on the back of the drum brake and remove the outer drum to see what's happening.

[mini-luke]

I vote seized rear quadrant, take a look, they're just in front of the wheel.

[jamesmpi]

Look in this thread

http://www.theminifo...ps/page__st__30

There is an online PDF file for mpi's. This will show you how to strip down the hand brake and remove the drum. Page 235

Edited by jamesmpi, 07 March 2012 - 06:13 PM.

[rsh1979]

Brilliant, thanks for your suggestions, will not get a chance to look at it until the weekend but will look at the guide and will let you know how I get on.

Many thanks.

[rsh1979]

Problem solved, I whacked the drum with a hammer which released whatever was seizing it up! A load of brake dust came loose so gave it a few more whacks for good measure! Now I have the MPI guides I think the next job is to remove the drums and clean them out.

Thanks for your help guys!