Wow--I'm glad I came across you guys in a Google search. I've learned a
lot already in perusing.

This is my first Honda (5-spd), I've had it a week, and I'm just getting
to know it. Bit of a shock going from the (decaying) tank I had
previously for 8 years, an 85 Pontiac wagon with a V-8 5.0-liter engine
and steel bumpers, but it was high time to move on and so far I'm very
impressed. Got my shop manual from Helm yesterday, but still have a
question (well, just one for now...).

The parking brake is loose--barely holds from rolling backwards on a
medium hill at the last notch. The rear pads are nice and thick so I
figured correcting this would be just a matter of adjusting the cable,
but one guy told me there were shoes inside the rotor just for the
parking brake(!). Since I can't find any mention of such pads in either
parts lists or the shop manual and that suggestion just doesn't make
much sense to me, I'm guessing the guy just doesn't know the brakes on
this car. Figured I'd ask here to be sure.

If adjusting the cable doesn't do the trick, is the next step to replace
it--assuming that it's stretched out? Tips would be appreciated.

Also, does anyone have a favorite source for quality tools that aren't
too costly, either online (U.S.A. merchants) or in New York City? I need
a metric combination wrench set, preferably with case, and a Torx/star
wrench--and with respect to the Torx I'm tired of the cheap, soft metal
one I've got now! Ick! (was the only one I could find at the time I
needed it)

Thanks,

Abe