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How2 - Handbrake lever leather boot replacement

Posted: Thu Nov 24, 2016 8:24 am
by Lowrider Dave
Handbrake lever boot - Product code: 90331615

These can still be bought new for about £40, but if you want to replace a tired looking leather cover then this is the procedure I follow.
This is intended as a guide only. I, or the forum, do not accept any responsibility for the result of any alteration or repair you attempt on your vehicle following this guide.


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Make a note of which way round the old cover fits. It is held in place with staples and these have to be removed. Use a small flat bladed screwdriver to prise the ends up.


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Then pull them out with a pair of small pliers. If they are difficult to move, lever the staples with the flat blade first to help the pliers gain purchase.


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Repeat all the way round the plastic frame.

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Drill the holes out or alternatively use a compass point/map pin to enlarge the holes slightly.


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This will make putting replacement staples in easier - I use 26/6 (26mmx6mm) although the plastic frame is slightly thicker than the handbrake plastic frame so a deeper staple would probably make the job easier.


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Position the cover and hold in place with bulldog clips


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Push a map pin through the holes in the plastic surround and puncture through the handbrake lever cover.


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Once both holes have been done, take one staple in the jaws of your pliers and push through the holes you have made.


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Bend over the ends of the staple…


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…and repeat all the way round the plastic frame.


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Official items are made from one piece with the seam only at one end, aftermarket items are normally made from two pieces of material which means you will have thick seams at both ends. This will make replacing the staples a difficult and untidy, if not impossible, job - to solve this I drilled two holes and used some jewellers wire (0.45mm brass), threaded it through and twist it together on the inside to hold it in place.