I just got an 84 300 turbo diesel sedan and tried the ebrake/parking brake. It pushes down fine, makes the clicking/ratcheting noise we're all used to. There is very little resistance to this and it very easy to put down. However the E brake wont hold the car for squat. Not in neutral on a handicapped ramp. it holds nothing!

Any suggestions as to what may be wrong with it? What might need to be replaced/where?

I am thinking that the cord may need to be tightened, then again I am not even sure if it is there in the first place. I also dont know how to access it to tighten it, however plan on figuring this out. Next step I think is inspecting the shoes I believe theyre called on the axel. They may need replacment, however Im not really sure.

I need a working E brake to pass MA state inspection. If someoen out there can help me figure this out Id really appreciate it. thanks.