I folks - newbie here, both to the forum and rovers.

I've picked up a '97 Disco 1 XD that has several issues. I come from the Audi quattro world, so working on these things doesn't scare me - and it's something my 9 year old son is excited in "assisting" me with. Right now I'm focusing on those things it needs to pass inspection.

1st up: the parking brake. The spring in the button that releases it doesn't seem to return - so the brake doesn't catch again. I've pulled the brake handle and removed from the vehicle - it seems that the button itself sticks and doesn't return the cog to the gear to catch. It would seam pretty simple, but I can't remove the spring or button. I've got a second e-brake handle that does exactly the same thing. Am I missing something here? Before I spend the $180 for a new handle, I want to make sure I'm tackling this correctly, since it appears the handle is sold as a complete unit.

I've searched the forums for this same issue, but to no avail.

Thanks! I'm looking forward to getting this thing back on the road. I'm a glutton for punishment, having owned several Audi quattros, Triumphs, Alfas, and other less note worthy vehicles. It's the complete opposite of my current wheels.

- Cello

 

I think I found my own answer, so I'm posting to hopefully help anyone who also has this issue.

The parking brake handle has been removed from the disco in this instance, but you may be able to fix this just by removing the console. What seems to be happening is that the rod that the button is attached to is slightly bent. What you need to do is take a large standard screwdriver, and from the rear of the handle feed it in as far as it'll go - between the top of the handle and the rod. Bend the rod away from the top of the handle a fraction. Do a little more until the button pops out. Done (I think). I tested it several times to see if the handle fails again, but it hasn't. I will know better once the handle reinstalled and the cable is adjusted.

- Cello

 

Cello-Thank you for posting what you had found, I read your post last night and I had nothing to contribute that was worth anything, normaly that doesnt stop me.

 

Glad to do it! I'm sure I'll benefit from the knowledge here rather shortly... In the process of removing the entire interior at the moment to find out where some water leaks are occurring (not the sunroof - the XD doesn't have one!).

I'm sure it's going to be an adventure!

- Cello

 

Well here are common water leaks/problems.
The seals around the Alpine windows, clogged A/C drains, leaking windshield seals.
And sunroof drains for anybody else who reads this.