1995 Ford Thunderbird Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Single Piston Calipers

The caliper assembly consists of a pin sliding caliper housing, inner and outer shoe and lining assemblies and a single piston, Figs. through . The caliper slides on two pins which also act as attaching bolts between caliper and the combination anchor plate and spindle. The outer brake shoe and lining assembly is longer than the inner brake shoe and lining assembly. Inner and outer shoe and lining assemblies are attached to the caliper by spring clips riveted to the shoe surfaces. The inner shoe is attached to the caliper by installing the spring clip to the i...

Caliper, Replace

On models with anti-lock brakes, the brake booster system must be depressurized before disconnecting any hydraulic lines or fittings. Depressurize the system by pumping the brake pedal a minimum of 25 times with the ignition in the Off position.

Except Aspire, Capri, Escort, Mustang Cobra, Probe & Tracer

Before removing calipers, mark lefthand and righthand calipers so they can be installed in the same position.

• On Continental, Sable and Taurus, turn air suspension service switch Off, if equipped.
• On all models, raise and support front of vehicle, then remove wheel a...

Parking Brake

Aspire

• Ensure parking brake control lever is in fully released position.
• Remove access cover from console.
• Remove cable adjustment nut's locking clip.
• Raise and support vehicle, then ensure rear tires turn freely.
• Tighten cable adjustment nut until brakes drag slightly when tires rotate.
• Loosen adjustment nut in small increments until drag just disappears.
• Rear brakes should lock when brake control lever is pulled upward 11-16 notches.
• Ensure parking brake operates properly.
• Install locking clip and access cover.

Continental, Cougar, Mustang & Thunderbird

• Fully release parking bra...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level, due to a chemical breakdown during use and a few precautions will minimize exposure. Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessive asbestos exposure.

The brake shoe and lining assemblies should be replaced if the lining is worn to ...

Disc brake service is extremely critical due to the close tolerances required in machining the brake disc to ensure proper brake operation.

Maintaining close control of the shape of the rubbing surfaces is necessary to prevent brake roughness. In addition, the surface finish must be non-directional and maintained at a micro-inch finish. This is necessary to avoid pulls and erratic performance and promote long lining life and equal lining wear of both the lefthand and righthand brakes.

Do not attempt to refinish the rubbing surfaces unless precision equip...

• On models equipped with anti-lock brakes, hydraulic system must be depressurized prior to disconnecting any hydraulic lines or fittings, by pumping the brake pedal a minimum of 25 times with ignition in Off position.
• On all models, grease or any other foreign material must be kept off caliper, disc surfaces and external hub surfaces during service procedures. Handling brake disc and caliper should be done in a way to avoid deforming disc and nicking or scratching brake linings.
• If inspection reveals rubber piston seals are worn or damaged, they should be replaced immediately.
• During wh...