Handbrake & Emergency Brake Cables for VW Bus T2
Handbrake & Emergency Brake Cables for VW Bus T2 – Solid Parking Power for your Bay Window
Does your VW Bus T2 roll back on inclines, or is the dashboard lever pulling up with zero resistance? For a heavy vintage vehicle – whether it's a panel van, a pickup, or a fully loaded Westfalia camper – a highly responsive and strong parking brake is critical for safety.
In this category, you will find all the high-quality replacement parts required for the emergency brake system of the classic VW Bus T2 (built from 1967 to 1979). We supply precision-engineered handbrake cables, lever components, and hardware to restore balanced braking power to your rear wheels.Crucial Differences: T2a (Early) vs. T2b (Late)
While the classic Bay Window silhouette remained mostly unchanged, Volkswagen introduced major mechanical updates over the production run. The most significant shift happened during the transition from the T2a (up to July 1971) to the T2b (from August 1971 onwards). Due to changes in rear suspension geometry, updated brake drums, and modifications to the under-dash handle linkage, the emergency brake cable lengths and end fittings differ completely between early and late models.Our T2 Product Range at a Glance:
- T2a Handbrake Cables (1967–1971): Correct lengths and hooks tailor-made for early production Bay Windows.
- T2b Handbrake Cables (1971–1979): Updated heavy-duty cables designed for the late-style rear axle setup.
- Hardware & Overhaul Kits: Compensating levers, bows, return springs, rubber boots, and correct tensioning nuts.
- Control Linkage: Replacement pieces for the traditional under-dash "umbrella style" handbrake handle assembly.
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Tech Tips for Your T2 Parking Brake:
- Model Year vs. Registration Date: Because the factory switched from T2a to T2b in August 1971, the registration date on your vehicle documents can be misleading. Always use your VIN / Chassis Number and structural indicators (like low vs. high front turn signals) to determine the correct parts.
- Replace Both Sides: Over decades of use, steel cables stretch unevenly. Always replace your emergency brake cables in pairs (left and right together) to ensure a perfectly straight pull and equal friction at the rear drums.
- Service the Under-Floor Linkage: The T2 transfers lever pull via a mechanical pivot link underneath the chassis. Clean, de-rust, and heavily grease these pivot points when running new cables to ensure silky-smooth operation.