what is the most likely cause, and where are the linkages located under the car? I'm thinking its probabley the cable, but i wouldn't know as i am not a mechanic.
thanks for the input

 

Maybe a stretched/worn/broken cable. There SHOULD be an adjuster anywhere along the cable under the car. Your rear shoes/pads may be worn so bad that they won't grab... or the rear brakes may need adjusted.