Electronic Emergency Brake?

[Jazzman]

The emergency brake handle is sort of an eyesore IMHO. It also looks like it might be difficult to use when you are fully strapped in to the ha Is it possible to eliminate it and replace it with some sort of an electronically activated emergency brake system? Obviously this sort of a system presupposes that the electrical system is still functional. If the electrical system dies, are you completely without and emergency brake? I saw that someone had moved it to the drivers side of the transmission tunnel. I fear this solution is a bit beyond my skill level, and I fear it would be in the way of my right knee which already doesn't work as well as it used to. has anyone found any other relocation or replacement solutions? Thanks.

[accobra66]

Another option is installing a manual shut off ball valve. I positioned mine just in front of my drivers seat tapping into my rear brake line. This worked trouble free this last summer. I was a bit nervous doing this as obviously the cable system might be more of a safe system but had not issues and do not regret the move one bit.

To activate you press the brake, turn the valve. To deactivate you press the brake harder than you did to activate and turn the valve the opposite way.

[tirod]

The "emergency" brake really isn't - it's meant to be a parking brake for the car when on an incline. From the limited reading here on statutes the states require it to hold on a grade without moving. In terms of "emergency" use the adoption of a split dual master in 1967 accomplished it, as there is theoretically always 1/2 of the hydraulic system available if the other half goes out.

From the perspective of tradition and liability the manufacturers have consistently made them mechanical in operation, forcing the rear brakes to hold the car, typically by applying force thru a cable operation. New cars are now adding solenoids where the parking brake handle used to function, with push button operation. In the aftermarket the most commonly used alternative is a hydraulic spot brake, sometimes even located on the pinion to lock the differential.

Using the same size calipers in the kit for good braking balance leaves the challenge of how to get an operating parking brake that passes legal muster. It's mostly a choice of adding another spot caliper for more unsprung weight and additional hydraulic work. Because of the lack of factory alternatives, we are typically stuck with what comes on donors - instead of what would actually be supplied if the car was manufactured. Like a three piston rear caliper with ratcheting e-brake. It would likely cost more than the fronts.

Best option for a kit with existing rear cable operated e-brakes is to add a late model electric solenoid operated actuator with push button. Some have already done that. But by any interpretation, it's not an "emergency" brake, as applying it while in motion would likely result in complete loss of control when the rear brakes lock.

[michael everson]

Check out a company called E-Stopp. I installed one in my 818 that I purchased through Summit Racing.
Mike

[Mark Dougherty]

I have installed several e-stop ebrakes
They work awesome
A little large and some fab involved but great at the end

[Bob Cowan]

I also recall some one installing a Fiero brake to the left of the driver's seat that seemed to work pretty well.

I son;t recommend the short Lokar handle. It looks good, but doesn't provide enough leverage to work well.

[rich grsc]

I wonder if a manual valve in the rear line would work ok, something like this?
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/lgpages/matcoPVPVs.php

[A cobra guy]

We have been selling the E-stopp for a couple of years without issue. Here is the link to it on our website. [URL="http://www.watsons-streetworks.com/index.php?route=product/search&filter_name=e-stopp"]
They are usually in stock ( I have 2 on the shelf as I write this) Please get in touch if we can answer any questions.

Harvey R
Watsons StretWorks

[Jazzman]

Thank you all!!