I was driving xcountry recently and when going through -cold- areas (w/snow and such) the pkg brake will not disengage
after pulling the lever up then putting it back down the cable does not release
the lever is slack until 15-20 min during which time the cable slowly takes up the slack

I dont want to drive with the brake on, nor do I want the cables to disengage from the lever


is this a lube issue, or do I need to replace cables?

as mentioned in other threads I will be replacing the RTA's asap so the cables will be replaced with them so I understand.

can I lube the current cables?

 

replace the cables

 

You can try some silcone spray from both ends of the cable. WD-40 won't last long.

Also check to see if the cables are kinked and straighten them if kinked.

 

Sounds like you have a break or some sort of damage in the outer jacket of the cable that allows moisture/water to get in and then freeze which cause the cables to stick. Check to see if you have anything chaffing/rubbing against the cables in the wheel well.