1994 Ford Thunderbird Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

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...

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...

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...

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

Complaints about power brake operation should be handled as if two separate systems exist. Check for faults in the hydraulic system first. If it is satisfactory, start inspecting the power brake circuit. For a quick check of proper power unit operation, press the brake pedal firmly and then start the engine. The pedal should fall away slightly and less pressure should be needed to maintain the pedal in any position.

Another check begins with installation of a suitable pressure gauge in the brake hydr...

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...

Remove wheels and inspect brake disc, caliper and linings. The wheel bearings should be inspected at this time and repacked if necessary. Do not get any grease on the linings.

If the caliper is cracked or fluid leakage through the casting is evident, it must be replaced as a unit.

Should it become necessary to remove the caliper when installing new parts, clean all parts in alcohol, then wipe dry using lint-free cloths. Using an air hose, blow out drilled passages and bores. Check dust boots for punctures or tears. If punctures or tears are evident, install new boots during assembly.

In...