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MAltom · 04-19-2021, 07:19 AM

Having trouble locating a front parking brake cable for a 1979 Airstream 280 p30 chassis. Every cable I’m finding through auto parts stores and on the internet is 87.25 inches. The cable I removed is 15-16 inches longer. Any suggestions? Thanks

**Action** · 04-19-2021, 09:07 AM

Welcome to the Air Forums

I am not that familiar with the motor home chassis other than it was based on a Chevrolet. Looking for a Chevrolet 1 ton application may help.

The other way would be to get a cable that is made to order or custom fit or fits a different application.

What do the cable ends look like?

Action

MAltom · 04-19-2021, 10:43 AM

One end is Clevis attachment and the other end is a threaded rod. The original is 102-103 inches long.Thanks

**Action** · 04-19-2021, 12:25 PM

I can not expand the picture to see the detail.

The threaded rod end would be rather an easy reproduction.
Cut the old off and weld it to the new generic replacement cable.

These two vids may have some value
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q...tail&FORM=VIRE
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q...tail&FORM=VIRE
Adding rear disc brakes is a popular thing for older cars. So there is a lot of that going on in the market place.

The added length from OE is likely due to extended wheelbase to make the coach. The added length is 16" from what you can get to what you want. A 16" extension may not be that difficult to add depending on which end to extend.

What is wrong with the old one?
Do the replacements you have found have the same ends?

Action

**Action** · 04-19-2021, 12:34 PM

A source for parts is difficult at this point.

Likely Airstream bought a pile of those to make coaches. They don't make coaches anymore and a 40+ year old vehicle is not something Airstream is going to stock parts for even if they did make motorhomes at this point

Here is a possible source that will make a cable
https://push-pull.com/

The other thing I am thinking of is modified 4X4 trucks. Not just the monster trucks but trucks that are used for serious off road driving. With raised suspensions and 30+ inch tires, the original parking brake cables would no longer reach. That market is being serviced by some one. Here are some search results.

https://madisonpowersystems.com/inde...g-brake-cables
https://orschelnproducts.com/custom-...-brake-cables/
http://www.controlcables.com/parking-brake-cables-2/

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MAltom · 04-19-2021, 04:29 PM

Thanks for all the ideas. The old cable was rusted up. I had to cut it to remove it and at the time was thinking I had a replacement but then realized it didn’t fit. I’ll look into your suggestions. Thanks for the links.

**Action** · 04-19-2021, 04:36 PM

It can be done. Just not an original from Airstream.
One of the above will make it possible.

Doubt that this is possible as Airstream did not make that part. They used a vendor. If there is some marking to ID the vendor that would be a big win.
And if the vendor is still in business, then buying a lotto ticket might be in order! After you place an order for a cable.

Action