I just picked up a 59 F100 and I can't figure out how to use the parking brake. It does not say in the manual and I couldn't figure it out by moving the handle.

 

Welcome!

Does the handle have a release part, a button or portion that you push or squeeze? There is a really good chance that the handle, the release, the cables, and everything else in the emergency brake system are rusted and seized together. Maybe start by disconnecting the cable at the handle and see if the handle moves, and beyond if necessary.

 

The 58/59 e-brake handle pulls straight out. To release it you turn it to the left (I think) and push it back in. If you don't feel any pressure as you pull it out or the rear brakes don't seem like they lock up, then you may have a cable broke or disconnected from the rear drums, or the rear brake pads may be wore so bad they aren't seizing the drum. I'm not sure you can remove the cable from the handle at the dash. I will have to ook at mine this week to verify.

Vern