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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1978 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II

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Expert: - 7/19/2011


Question
Hello I have a 1978 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II. My e-brake is stuck,my back tires will not move. How do I fix this problem without taking it to a Rolls dealer? The nearest one is 5 hours. Please help!!! Thanks

Answer
Hi Anthony:
Common problem on RR or any vehicle that isn't driven
often. The big question is..."Where is it stuck?"

It could be stuck at the pedal or at the wheel. Check both.
Make sure the brake pedal fully releases and the arm
on the pedal comes all the way up. This tells you the "release"
mechanism is working properly.

Most likely it is stuck at the rear wheels. Once the pedal is
released, get under the rear wheels and you will see a steel
cable or rod running to the e-bake on the wheels.

First, spray this entire linkage with WD-40 or a silicone lubricate.
Then tap the e-brake arm with a screw driver handle. This
should cause it to release. If not try setting and releasing the e-brake
pedal several times to see if this will do the trick.

I NEVER use the e-brakes on any of my vintage cars because of this issue.
E-brakes are totally mechanical and are known to stick if not used often.
You should exercise the e-brakes daily if you plan you use them.

Good Luck!

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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All around the Internet

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I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

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I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

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