1996 Mercury Sable Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Removal

• Raise and support rear of vehicle, then remove tire and wheel assembly.
• Remove brake drum and hub as follows:
• Remove drum retainer push nuts, then slide drum off hub, Fig. .
• If drum is stuck to hub, use a suitable hammer to lightly tap on face of drum in flange mounting area to release.
• If brake lining is dragging on brake drum, back off brake adjustment by holding adjustment lever off star wheel, then loosen star wheel, Fig. .
• Remove hub nut cover and discard.
• Remove hub nut and discard, then slide hub and one-piece bearing assembly off spindle.
• Install suitable wheel cylinder pi...

Complaints about power brake operation should be handled as if two separate systems exist. Inspect for faults in the hydraulic system first. If it is satisfactory, start inspecting the power brake circuit. For a quick inspection 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 inspection begins with installation of a suitable pressure gauge in the brake hydraulic system. Take a reading with the engine Off and the power unit n...

• 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 pla...

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 matched during production should not require service adjustment. However, if the b...

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic brake systems. Ensure all dirt and contaminants are removed from master cylinder area prior to removing reservoir cap.

To prevent air from the pressure tank getting into the lines, do not shake the tank while air is being added to the tank or after it has been pressurized. Set the tank in the required location, bring the air hose to the tank, and do not move it during the bleeding operation. The tank should be kept at least one-third full.

On vehicles equipped with disc brakes and master cylinders without proportioners or press...