After parking an LDV Convoy 400 and returning to it...Strarted the engine and realeased the hand brake...all as usual. But the van would move when engaging 1st gear and lifting the clutch. Someone watching described the drive shaft as 'flexing'. I have checked underneath and it doesnt appear as though the hand brake cable has become 'stuck'. So I was wondering if it could be anything serious like the rear differential? Its very strange seen as it was working fine before with no clues. If a reaer differential is needed how much would labour would be needed to replace? I cannot tow the vehicle! Many thanks!

Owen, May 2007

Great! Thanks, I gave the drums a bit of a smack with a mallet, and this released them. Many thanks for your advice!

Owen, November 2007

Sounds as though your rear brakes are jammed on it used to happen on an old LDV truck I used to have the reason was lack of servicing and the brake shoes were worn out they just used to stick. Try reverse then forward a few times it might clear or leave your vehicle with the handbrake off and bang the rear wheel centres with a hammer. If these steps work then get your brakes looked at.

powerhousesteve@hotmail.com, July 2007

Hello Owen,

That's a honky motor you have in your van if it's flexing the driveshaft! I've only got a 2.5 diesel in mine. Anyway, I had this problem albeit in a Peugeot car. I think your problem may be worn shoes binding against the drum even when you let off the handbrake. In some cases the shoes bind tighter as you try to drive away.
Try going backwards to free the shoes if indeed this is the problem. This might work. If it does remember to change the shoes ASAP as worn linings can drop off the backing.

I doubt you have a sudden problem with the differential. Your ears would have told you long ago a problem was going to occur !

Good luck, John

John Tucker in sunny Rye..., May 2007