I replaced the driver's side e-brake cable on my 99 F150 due to the cable pulling through the backing plate (I think the backing plate hole either wore or rusteed out bigger). The new cable is doing the same thing and now I cannot drive because if you depress the e-brake one time, the cable gets pulled throught the hole, then since it won't come back out of the hole, pushes the brake shoe against the drum and, thus, drag. Please, if any of you guys have come across this or have any ideas short of replacing the backing plate (which I think would be an extensive repair), I'd appreciate any thoughts. I was thinking of trying to find a C clip to hold the cable out but it's iffy at best. Thanks guys.

 

This is an emergency/park brake
Have the backing plate replaced
An inferior repair could be disastrous

 

I was looking for another fix since replacing the backing plate would be very costly in labor. I believe it would entail wheel and tire removal, dissasembly of the brake mechanism, opening the rear end and removing the axle, then attempting to remove the rusted on plate. Can't really afford that kind of cost so was looking for an alternative if it exists. Maybe a radiator clamp to interfere with the hole (if it'll hold) if not the C clip. Any other thoughts. Thanks.

 

You might try welding the hole and then drilling to proper size. You might try welding a washer with the right size hole over the old one. This all depends on how rusty and thin the backing plate is for a welding to work.

 

So tried the modified washer tack with a successful outcome! A stainless steel washer 1/16" thick slightly over 1/2" opening. Slipped right onto the e-brake cable (did not need to weld it) and fits and holds nicely. Thanks for the help. Thirty-two cents in parts plus my labor. That's a good fix.