Would it be possible (practicle?) to install a line lock for the rear brakes to function as a "parking brake" instead of using a cable/mechanical system? I am considering it as an alternative to buying an aftermarket rear disc brake kit that uses cables and a mini-drum parking brakes (99 and newer F-bodies use this type of sytem I believe). The first thing (hurdle) that comes to mind is keeping the solenoid energized to maintain clamping pressure in the rear calipers. I can see a considerable amount of heat generated in the solenoid coils. Then there is the issue of current drain on the battery. I know the NOS remote bottle opener only has power to the solenoid momentarily to open and close it.........hmmm! What kind of brake line pressures are we talking about here? 1000 psi? 1500 psi? ???

Thanks!

Mike

 

I would say no. I believe that the parking brake needs to be mechanical.

------------------
1992 Z/28 305 Purple Haze

 

mr2fast4u,
Why do you think the parking brake needs to be mechanical? Not a flame.....just curious why you say that. My idea probably does not meet DOT standards/requirements but...........

Mike

 

Parking brakes are required by law to be mechanical because the proper term is "emergency" brake. If your brakes fail a line lock won't do you a bit of good. The second reason it won't work is that line locks are set to time out and release after about 30 seconds. Another one of those blasted safety features.

 

A line lock needs electrical power. If the wiring breaks, wears, shorts or the battery goes dead, the line lock won't work or it will release the brakes when you aren't expecting it. Also leaving the line lock on for extended lengths of time uses electrical power. It will eventually drain the battery and since the line lock is a solinoid, it's constantly on risking a chance of it burning out.

Line locks can be installed on street vehicles as a sort of temporary park brake. They're usually used on vehicles with manual transmissions. They help you get started on hills while holding the vehicle. As a permanent park brake it would work very long.

------------------
Follow my racing progress on Stephen's racing page
and check out the race car

87 IROC-Z SuperPro ET Bracket Race Car
461 naturally aspirated Big Block (times are for the current engine)

Best ET on a time slip: 11.447 altitude corrected to 10.99
Best MPH on a time slip: 119.42 altitude corrected to 124.86
Altitude corrected rear wheel HP: 493
Best 60 foot: 1.586

Racing at 3500 feet elevation with a typical race day over 5000 feet density altitude!
Member of the Calgary Drag Racing Association

87 IROC bracket car, 91 454SS daily driver, 95 Homebuilt Harley