Some types of parking brakes can be released mechanically by ‘winding them off’ or ‘caging’ them. A bolt, which runs through the centre of the chamber body, is turned to compress the spring. It may be necessary to first remove a lock plate and stud, to gain access to the head of the bolt. Other types have a plug which must first be removed and a bolt inserted. In some cases, a special wrench is required. Instruction on how to ‘cage’ is usually on the body of the parking brake. If all air is lost and the vehicle has to be moved, the parking brake can be released by winding them off. DO NOT wind off the spring brakes completely. Leave enough brake force to stop the vehicle after it has been moved. Always block the wheels when caging the parking brake spring. Caging means the brakes are being released.

WARNING!
Parking brakes should never be disassembled without first compressing the spring with a wind-off bolt. These springs are under extreme pressure and could cause serious personal injury if disassembly is attempted by anyone not experienced in servicing these units. Disassembly is a job for a mechanic.