I cannot get he cable that goes in the cab to connect with the cable that goes to the rear drums. 1997 F150 139in wheelbase. Both rear cables replaced. I have used ratchet straps to pull the cables to their limits and they are coming up 1/2in short. Even if they could connect they would be waaaaay too tight. The part number for the cables are correct so I know that they are the right ones. I was unable to do the Haynes manual cable pressure release so this is the reason for the ratchet straps. What the is the problem! At my wits ends. The cable is pulled so tight that it is starting to bend the backing plates on the drums.

 

Have you tried backing off the brake shoe adjustment? Have you compared the lengths to the old cables? Don't get mad at me for asking but are you sure your e-brake pedal is all the way released?

 

The pedal is all the way up and a good amount was pulled out by the ratchet strap. The cables are also the same length.

 

Just completed this job on a 2000 7700,and had the same problem.disconect the cables at the rear drums first,join the two cables were they meet under drivers door.relax adjusters on rear drums then reconnect cable ends.you will have to re-set adjusters once all cables are connected,no problemo.

 

The adjusters are turned down all the way now.

 

If your still trying to join the two cables whilst the cable ends are attached at the drums, it ain't gona happen.

 

So I am going to have to undo the rears cable then attach the cable then go back and fight to get the cables attached? If I can't attach the cable now what relieves the pressure so I can attach the cables at the brake shoe?

 

I'm just leting you know how I overcame exactly the same problem as you have right now,you don't need the same amount of slack to re attach at drum and it's a lot easier because your pulling cable onto a fixed part, not two cable ends that are floating around in mid air.worked for me.