1992 Ford Thunderbird Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

BRAKE ROUGHNESS

The most common cause of brake chatter on disc brakes is a variation in thickness of the disc. If roughness or vibration is encountered during highway operation or if pedal pumping is experienced at low speeds, the disc may have excessive thickness variation. To check for this condition, measure the disc at 12 points with a micrometer at a radius approximately one inch from edge of disc. If thickness measurements vary by more than ...

The hydraulic 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 switch in the OFF position.

EXCEPT ASPIRE, CAPRI, ESCORT, FESTIVA, PROBE & TRACER

Removal

• Remove brake fluid until reservoir is half full.
• On 1994 Continental, Sable and Taurus models, turn air suspension service switch off.
• On all models, raise and support front of vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove caliper locating pins.
• Lift caliper assembly from adapter plate, then remove outer...

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 break down 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...

• Inspect components for damage and unusual wear. Replace as necessary.
• Inspect wheel cylinders. Boots which are torn, cut, or heat damaged indicate need for wheel cylinder replacement. Fluid spilling from boot center hole, or wetness around wheel cylinder ends indicates cup leakage and need for wheel cylinder replacement. A small amount of fluid is always present and is considered normal, acting as lubricant for cylinder pistons.
• Inspect backing ...

Whenever new brake components are installed in the hydraulic system, it is recommended that the entire hydraulic system be thoroughly flushed with clean brake fluid.

It may sometime become necessary to flush out the system due to the presence of mineral oil, kerosene, gasoline, etc., which will cause swelling of rubber piston cups and valves so they become inoperative. The procedure is as follows:

Flushing is...