The brake cables will rust and freeze up with lack of use. If you pull off the center console and then pull up on the handle, you will see that the bar connecting the two sides will not move on the 'frozen' cable. If the bar does not favor one side when pulling up on the handle, it could be just the adjustment at the star wheel is needed.

Yes, after 21 years, the brake shoes will delaminate and need to be replaced. Remember to loosen the brake adjustment at the center console before adjusting the star wheel.

The expander parts are usually in good shape, but a thin coating of brake grease will help to keep the rust away.

The cable hold down under the front seat (plastic) is a bear until you use a large screwdriver to just pry it straight up from the floor. I now do that just by 'feel'. The 'rivet' on the rear swing arm can be replaced with a sheet metal screw.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new