Here's a breakdown of how to address a loose emergency brake:
1. Identify the type of emergency brake system:
* Cable-operated (most likely): This is the most common type. The emergency brake lever actuates cables that pull on levers or shoes in the rear drum brakes. Adjustment is usually made at the rear of the vehicle, near the rear brakes themselves.
* Drum-operated in the rear wheels (less likely): In this less common setup, the emergency brake mechanism is directly integrated into the rear drum brakes. Adjustment is done within the rear brake drums themselves. This requires removing the drums.
2. Adjust the Emergency Brake Cables (Cable-Operated System):
This usually involves accessing adjustment points on the rear of the vehicle, near the parking brake cables that attach to the rear brakes. The exact location varies slightly depending on the specific Silverado model. You'll typically find:
* Self-adjusting cables: Some systems are self-adjusting and don't require manual adjustments. If your emergency brake is suddenly loose, a more significant problem (like a broken cable or a problem within the rear brakes themselves) is the likely culprit.
* Manually adjustable cables: You'll likely find one or two adjusting nuts or turnbuckles on the cables near the connection points at the rear brakes or on the cable housing. These nuts can be turned to take up slack. To adjust, turn the adjusting nuts or turnbuckles clockwise to tighten the cables. Only turn them a small amount at a time, then test the brake. Repeat until the emergency brake works correctly. Consult a repair manual for your specific model year for the exact locations of the adjustment points.
3. Adjust the Emergency Brake Shoes (Drum-Operated System, Requires Drum Removal):
This is significantly more involved and requires mechanical skills. It involves:
* Removing the rear wheels and brake drums.
* Accessing the emergency brake shoes within the drum.
* Adjusting the shoes using the star wheel adjuster. This involves turning a star-shaped wheel to push the shoes further outward.
Important Considerations:
* Consult a repair manual: A repair manual specific to your 1999 Chevy Silverado is highly recommended. It will provide diagrams and detailed instructions for accessing and adjusting your specific emergency brake system.
* Safety: Always use caution when working on your brakes. Jack up the vehicle securely and use jack stands.
* Professional help: If you're not comfortable working on your brakes yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake adjustment can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
* Underlying problem: A suddenly weakened emergency brake is often an indicator of a larger issue, not simply cable adjustment. Investigate the reasons for the weakness. Worn brake shoes or a broken cable are possibilities.
Ignoring a faulty emergency brake is dangerous. Addressing the problem promptly is crucial for safety.
