Here's a breakdown of what's involved, and why you might want professional help:
Why it's often best to have a professional do this:
* Difficulty of access: Reaching the adjustment mechanisms on the rear calipers can be difficult and require specialized tools.
* Potential for damage: Incorrect adjustment can lead to uneven braking, reduced effectiveness, or even damage to the brake system.
* Safety concerns: Working with the brake system requires caution and a good understanding of braking mechanics.
If you're determined to do it yourself (proceed with caution!):
1. Consult a repair manual: A repair manual specific to your 1997 Passat is essential. It will provide detailed diagrams, instructions, and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual for that year and model would be invaluable.
2. Locate the adjustment mechanisms: The repair manual will show you precisely where these are located on your rear brake calipers. They're often small and somewhat hidden.
3. Engage the parking brake: Make sure the parking brake is fully engaged before attempting adjustment.
4. Adjust the cables: This usually involves using a small wrench or socket to turn the adjusting mechanism. You'll likely need to do this in small increments and frequently test the parking brake's effectiveness. The manual will explain how to correctly judge the adjustment.
5. Test the parking brake: After each small adjustment, release the parking brake and test its effectiveness. Make sure the parking brake holds the car securely on a slight incline, but not so tightly that it's difficult to release.
6. Check for even engagement: Ensure the parking brake engages evenly on both rear wheels. Uneven engagement can lead to problems.
7. Tighten/secure components: Once you've achieved the correct adjustment, ensure all fasteners are tightened securely to the manufacturer's specifications (found in your repair manual).
Alternatives to manual adjustment:
* New brake cables: Sometimes worn-out brake cables are the source of the problem, and replacing them might be a more effective solution than fiddling with the adjustments.
* Professional mechanic: The most reliable and safest approach is to have a qualified mechanic perform this adjustment or repair. The cost of professional service is generally much less than the cost of a potential brake system repair due to a mistake.
In short: Adjusting the parking brake on a 1997 Passat is not a simple task and carries the risk of causing further damage to your braking system if done incorrectly. Consult your repair manual and strongly consider having a professional mechanic handle this task.
