Emergency brake mechanism.....

[NCturbo75]

I have checked but have not found any post about this subject. What I am referring to is the metal piece that is "lodged" in the bracket. One side has multiple teeth while the other side looks like a point with a hole in the middle. I had a friend weld this piece back and it worked okay for while. Now that the weld came loose, it seems to keep getting jammed when I engage and disengage the e-brake. I don't have access to a welding machine...so I removed the spring (for the release button) and the metal piece. The e-brake works but won't stay engage because of the removed piece. Also, I have to leave my car in gear when I turn off the ignition. I am not used to leaving the car in gear like that. Any suggestions would be appreciated. BTW, this is for my '90 240 coupe.