Do I need a parking brake?

[tscott9330]

Is the parking break really needed in a automatic? I am rebuilding the rear end on the 78 and just got to thinking how little I would use the parking break.

Any thoughts?

Tom

 

[67HEAVEN]

Depending on your state laws, it may be required as part of a safety inspection.

 

[Daryllawman]

Just my dollar's worth.....I like for everything to work...so I would keep the Emergency Brake.....who knows , you might just need it one day......

 

[sherry_ridgeway]

well, that depends on if you want your car to move after you park it, I say yes
they were desighned to make a car stay put while parked, the same as a gas tank lid, "they were put there for a reason" am i right?
Sherry

 

[GTR1999]

If you're rebuilding the rear suspension,rear bearing in particular,then setup using new shoes and SS hardware. It will be nice to have them work,but don't expect a "real" parking brake function. The design was nver that good to begin with but will function if setup correctly.

 

[Robin7TFour]

tom, they may not work great,but some day you may need it when the brakes go soft.
my 02

Robin

 

[MaineShark]

Using the parking brake also takes stress off the transmission, u-joints (all six), and rear end, particularly when parking on a hill. Of course, on the other hand, if you live in certain areas, corrosion and/or ice can cause your parking brake to stick in the "on" position, rendering your car undriveable.

Joe

 

[jclit]

I had to use mine once (emergency brake) when by master cylinder crapped out. I was sure glad I had it and am now always careful to ensure it works well even though I don’t use it much.

Jim

 

[Grizzly]

Two thoughts, it allows you to slow down without showing brake lights which in certain situtations with members of the law enforcement community may be be useful, and parking sprags can be snapped quite easily if you are bumped from behind when it is parked.