Parking Brake Linkage And Cable problems of the 2000 Ford Ranger

On April 8th 2006 the front parking brake cable on my 2000 Ford Ranger broke due to wear from a metal clip used to hold the cable sleeve in place. When I tried to replace the cable I discovered that the parking brake assy. Was manufactured so that the parking brake/e-brake pedal assy also has to be replaced, because there is no way to remove the broken cable from the pedal assy. The cost of the part is $85. 00 for the pedal assy. And $35. 00 for the cable assy. Parts are only available through the dealer on special order only. My concern is that if people have to pay that much for something they shouldn't have to replace, then they wont replace the broken cable and potentially cause an accident or worse, death to someone.

The right rear parking brake line is being worn through by the shock. . . I returned to dealership - they advised that it is the design. . . There is no current "fix". . . Approximately 1/8 inch is worn in brake cable. . . The rear shock upper tube has forced the parking brake cable under it and its now against the lower thin shock tube. . . As the truck rides and hits bumps. . . It forces the brake line up and down as if sawing. . . This is wearing through. . . New year model truck - dealership looked at other Ford Rangers. . . All the same. . . . So more of this type of event will be occurring.