I'm trying to figure out the emergency brake on my 71 Chevelle Malibu. Basically, it doesn't work. When I step down on the brake nothing happens of course as far as braking. Then when I try to release the brake it doesn't spring back up. I have to pull the brake up by hand. When I pull it back up a slight tension pulls it back down. Does anyone have any idea where I need to start to get this problem fixed? It can't be too hard, but unfortunately I don't know where to start.

Thanks

The E-brake system has several components that make it work, the pedal assembly inside the car, the front or dash cable, the equalizer and the guide that the intermediate cable passes thru, the intermediate cable and two wheel cables. On the dash cable in my 64, there is a small spring wound around the undercar end of the dash cable.

I would recommend that you find out if all the above items are still installed on the car and if you are not comfortable with inspecting it your self, try to get someone that is knowledgeable in brake work. Hope this helps.