1994 Ford Probe 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 the edge of the disc. If thickness measurements vary by more t...

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic disc brake systems.

The disc brake hydraulic system can be bled manually or with pressure bleeding equipment. The brake pedal will require more pumping and frequent checking of fluid level in master cylinder during bleeding operation.

Do not use brake fluid drained from the hydraulic system when bleeding the brakes. Be sure the disc brake pistons are returned to their normal positions and the shoe and lining assemblies are properly seated. Before driving the vehicle, check brake operation to be sure a firm pedal has been obtain...

On vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes refer to appropriate "Anti-Lock Brakes".

PUSHROD

Proper adjustment of the master cylinder pushrod is necessary to ensure proper operation of the power brake system. A pushrod that is too long will prevent the master cylinder piston from completely releasing hydraulic pressure, eventually, causing the brakes to drag. A pushrod that is too short will cause excessive brake pedal travel and cause groaning noises to come from the booster when the brakes are applied. A properly adjusted pushrod that remains assembled to the booster with which is was ...

QUICK TEST

The Quick Test consists of two sub-tests: Key On Engine Running Test and Continuous Test. Before performing either test, an inspection of the ABS warning light is required to verify a fault has been detected by the ABS control unit, or if system is operating normally. When ABS system is operating normally, the ABS warning light will illuminate during Key On Engine Off and go off after the engine has started.

If the ABS warning light stays on after the engine starts, this indicates a present failure. Any time the ABS warning light flashes, it indicates either a prese...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust. 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. 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 within ^1/32 inch of rivet heads (riveted lining...

HYDRAULIC BRAKE FLUID COLOR

Hydraulic brake fluid must conform with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 116. Under this standard, brake fluids are visually different from other automotive fluids such as transmission, power steering and engine.

Fluid color in a normal brake system may vary from its original color for many reasons. A brake master cylinder may show significantly different shades fluid color between the two brake master cylinder reservoirs. Color may also appear to vary between cast steel and die cast aluminum reservoirs. Some reasons for discolorati...