How to release the brakes on a 2000 chevy tracker

The switch behind the brake pedal is for the brake lights as well as the shift release. There is a shift release solenoid (relay) that activates when you press the brake pedal. This is at the shifter itself. This is most likely the failed part. Most vehicles have a manual release capability; look in your owners manual to see if you have one and how to access it.

You must have air in the brake lines. You will have to bleed the lines to get the air out. You will have to locate the bleed valve near each wheel. It is easier to take off the wheel so you can see everything. The brake line will have a drain screw near the place that the line goes into the brake caliper assembly. You will need a helper. Loosen the screw a bit then have your helper press the brake to the floor. Fluid and/or air will come out. While they hold it to the floor, tighten the screw so it won't such air back in when the brake peddle is released. With the brake pedal released, open the drain screw again and have the helper press the brake to the floor again. Repeat this until no more air comes out when the brake pedal is pressed. Then move to the next wheel and repeat. During the process make sure that the fluid in the master cylinder does not run out. The level will drop each time you bleed some of it from the bleed valve (or drain screw or whatever you want to call it). It helps to open the drain screw just enough to let a little fluid out. You won't waste as much that way. By time you get through with the last wheel the brake should not go to the floor anymore.

The extra brake travel can be;
1. air still in the brake lines and need bleeding
2. if there are brake drums on the rear they may be out of adjustment
3. if there are warped brake disc or caliper problems that will add to the brake travel

sounds like the master cylinder

Try this,apply the emergency before stepping on the brake.
If this helps the pedal,the rear brakes are out of adjustment.

master cylinder?

either the brake line is broken or the wheel cylinder is leaking, pull the tire.

Hello;
The parking brake cables may be stretched and in need of adjustment. Follow the cables along to a nut. Then you can tighten the adjusters up on both sides until you have the proper tension. Also make certain none of the brackets are bent or broken that the cables ride through.
Thanks;
RPM Northwest

are your rear drums set up? why did you bleed the brakes. when only when you installed new pads?