[wolfman]

Adjust the REAR BRAKE SHOES first! The cable(s) don't just go out of adjustment or "stretch" but rather the rear brake shoes wear down to the point that they cannot take up the slack. Provided the rear shoes are not worn eccessively, you can adjust them WITHOUT taking anything apart. Take the car to a large empty parking lot, drive in REVERSE at about 10-15mph and STAND on the brakes. Repeat several times. Provided your shoes are still serviceable and self adjusters are free, this should be all that's needed to adjust the shoes outward and restore "normal" parking brake action with the cables set as is.