[Healeys] emergency brake system query-

[RCobb]

BJ8 was fully functional when parked in storage a couple years ago.  
Handbrake was engaged.

Recently, when preparing the car for "re-activation", upon releasing the 
handbrake, the cable disengaged at the lever's pivot point, as though 
the cable/linkages/whatever are binding or frozen.

The challenges: I have not been able to find documentation that clearly 
shows how the brake cable is run, or how any linkages behind the brake 
backing plates or within the brake drums are configured (which would 
help direct attention to what may need to be freed-up); if it would help 
to pull the rear wheels and drums, there is only a 12" clearance next to 
the left side of the car and maybe 18" on the right side; the car was 
backed-in and it's not feasible to roll the car out of the storage 
space, as there is a significant slope, which would limit the option of 
jacking the rear of the car, while on the slope; I suspect the car would 
not roll anyway, since the handbrake is functionally engaged.

I've jacked the rear up about 14", but that does not give me enough 
visual information to determine the source of the problem or how it may 
be corrected.

Suggestions, from those who are familiar with how the emergency brake 
system functions, are solicited. Thanks in advance.

Bob