Fixed it. The guide metal in the side of the lever mechanism got pinched in so the the lever was getting hung up on the "crease" and couldn't fit between the two side pieces that go on either side of the ratchet gear. I bent it back and it slid right down. While I was in there, I tightened...

brake lever.JPG I"m not sure that the problem may just be that the brake lever itself is not lowering down to its proper position. It will lower some, but then it stops. Anyone know where I can see a photo of the brake lever mechanism? I can't get the vinyl cover off the handle to get a good o...

Yup, it's all my fault. My '89 240 wagon was on a slight incline and I pulled up hard on the emergency brake because I needed to look at the (slipping) alternator belt with the engine running (it's a stick). I can push the handle button in, but the lever is NOT going down..... I put a cat's paw on t...