67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

[Jace H.]

The Park Brake handle on my 67 roadster is the later version with the simulated chrome tip surrounding the black button. It has worn to a dull grey. I tried painting it before a recent regional meet. The judges didn't like my attempt at restoration. It has since dulled again. How do I restore this piece correctly?

Thanks,
Jace Holt
28944

[Stephen L.]

Re: 67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

I just went thru this. I disassembled the plastic handle from the metal brake arm. Its probably best to have the assy out of the car.
To remove the plastic grip you must remove the black button first. I removed the 1/4" roll pin from the "stop pawl" at the base of the plastic grip. This allowed the button to protrude beyond the grip. I pulled/twisted the button off the metal 1/8" stem. (Glue it back on later) Then I slipped the grip off the chrome metal stem. (Its tight but, not glued)
I attempted to have the plastic handle rechromed but that was somewhat of a disaster. You may find someone better than I did that can rechrome the handle. My plan was to rechrome (entire piece because I could not separate the 2 plastic inner/outer pieces) and then use "BULL DOG" paint adhesion. Then paint the black back on the handle.
I was fortunate to find and old assy on EBay that was rusty but had a good plastic handle with good chrome. After buffing out some minor imperfections in the plastic, I used that handle with my assy and put the whole thing back together. Looks great!!

[Jace H.]

Re: 67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

Thanks Steve for the detailed response and advice. I appreciate it.

Jace

[Stephen L.]

Re: 67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

Jace,
I have a photo of the finished product if you are interested. E-mail me for some photos

[Richard S.]

Re: 67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

Jace,
There is someone who can restore your handle to original. Look in the archives for my post on this subject....his name should be there.

[Raymond W.]

Re: 67 Park Brake Handle Restoration

A fellow member by the name of Jeff Salz advertises in the Driveline for Brake Handle Restorations. He did a correct restoration for me ('74)...I was very satisfied with the finished product.