I use the MATCO parking brake. It works very well. It is important thet it
is placed in a position where it cannot be inadvertantly selected. As it is
a hydraulic valve it will prevent brake application if it is selected with
the brake off. If it was knocked on in flight no braking would be available
on landing. Whilst the mechanical cam parking brakes are cheaper they are a
little more awkward to use and take more time to make and set up initially.
They are usually designed with teeth so the exact setting will be defined by
steps. Unless these steps are kept small the exact amount of brake pressure
with the parking brake set will change as the pads wear. The hydraulic brake
by contrast will hold whatever pressure is applied by the brake lever.
Nigel Charles
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