woodedslope Posted August 31, 2014 Share Posted August 31, 2014 I've grown to like my Subaru Forester XLN apart from driver comfort, so I've been thinking of buying a newer model. The only problem is, on every other newer Forester I have seen the parking brake handle is canted to the right. I am a very big fellow so I find this position pushes into my left thigh. Is there any way to get this changed? Anyone seen an alternative that doesn't do this? Anyone know a custom parts maker who might do something here? I'm wondering if the reason for this strange right facing lever is a cosmetic one, or if its needed for some technical reason, e.g.: the travel of the gear lever would tend to get in the way of the parking brake handle. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ash007ks Posted August 31, 2014 Share Posted August 31, 2014 Ive tried having a look to no Avail, maybe go into your local Subaru too see if it is needed to be like that, i would say you could change it for a smaller handle, it should twist or screw off. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
woodedslope Posted August 31, 2014 Author Share Posted August 31, 2014 Thanks, the dealer wasn't any help when I asked. Just one of those things they don't 'get' It might have to be a Discovery 3 for me, but they are a bit wide for the roads around here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ash007ks Posted August 31, 2014 Share Posted August 31, 2014 I find it strange that it would be in such a place, best person to ask would be someone like stanton or the other forester lads. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stants Posted August 31, 2014 Share Posted August 31, 2014 Hello, I hear my ears burning ! Can you take a picture of the offending handle ? Do you have a low ratio box lever in the centre console as well as the usual gubbins ? It does seem strange that it's offset surely that would cause injury in the event of an accident, mines an older model but I have at least 4" between the gear leaver left in reverse and the top of the handbrake. Have thought about replacing the seat ? Plenty of comfy 2nd hand impreza forester & legacy ones around that may enable you to sit an inch or so higher and not get stabbed in the leg Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jay762 Posted September 3, 2014 Share Posted September 3, 2014 What you could do - does require a bit of work though - is fit a brake lock lever - this puts pressure to the rear brakes via the hydraulic lines, they are smaller than the handbrake lever and could be mounted in a place more suitable http://www.mico.com/products/brake-actuation/brake-locks PS. link is to show examples - I know you can get them in the UK Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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