Failed Mot! on mk7 2.2 140ps

[jimbo07g41]

Failed on a track rod end and inefficient handbrake.
Is the track rod end easy to swap out? What tends to cause a poor handbrake. Dismantle mechanism and replace shoes if required?

[loot]

Track rod end is easy enough to do, you'll need wheels tracking up after tho.

Pads on these, the cable rod might just need adjusting up, or the pads might be stuck etc so you might want to give the rear calipers a clean and grease.

It has been known for the handbrake levers to size up so you might need to free them off, does the handbrake lever move smoothly and with resistance? How high up will it go? Wants to go maximum of 5 clicks

[jimbo07g41]

Well I think I will replace the track rod end and then get the tracking checked.

The handbrake has little résistance and is at 11% efficiency.

[loot]

The handbrake setup is very simple on these so there's not much to be looked all tbh.
Chock the front wheels so it can't move and get someone to work the handbrake while you inspect from the rod back, the 2 rear cables link by a plate to the rod so if 1 side is stuck then you lose efficiency on both in a way.
5 mins to check.
I assume that the foot brake and pads are all good.?

[jimbo07g41]

Thanks for the reply, will get the wheels off and check.

[jimbo07g41]

On a positive note my new headlights, instruments and fog lights passed.

[bigjohnthomas]

Well I think I will replace the track rod end and then get the tracking checked.

The handbrake has little résistance and is at 11% efficiency.

Do you know having the tracking checked costs money ?
Count the number of turns the old one comes off and just put the new one on the same
f*** the corupt tax collectors

[jimbo07g41]

Ah yes, Thanks! I have also put tape on the thread and marked the position on the tie rod nut in the past.