If your parking brake isn't working properly, the problem likely lies elsewhere and requires professional attention. Here's what could be wrong and the appropriate course of action:
* Worn brake shoes: This is the most common cause. The brake shoes are worn down and can't grip the drums effectively. Solution: Requires replacement of the rear brake shoes and potentially the drums if they're scored or damaged. This is a job best left to a mechanic or someone experienced with brake work.
* Cables stretched or broken: While there isn't a manual adjustment, the cables can stretch or break over time. Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of the parking brake cables is necessary. Again, this is usually best done by a mechanic.
* Internal mechanism failure (self-adjusters): The self-adjusting mechanism within the rear drums might be malfunctioning. Solution: This often requires professional diagnosis and repair, possibly involving replacement of internal parts within the rear brake drums.
* Low brake fluid: While less likely to affect *only* the parking brake, low brake fluid can reduce braking effectiveness overall. Solution: Check your brake fluid level (in the master cylinder) and add fluid if necessary. However, if it's low, investigate why you're losing fluid—a leak somewhere in the system is likely.
In summary: Don't attempt to adjust the parking brake yourself. Take your 1997 Mercury Mountaineer to a qualified mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. Improper brake repair can be dangerous. They'll be able to determine the cause of the ineffective parking brake and perform the necessary repairs safely and correctly.
