1996 Mercury Sable Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

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 to 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 equipment, ...

• 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...

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 inspect 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 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 inspecting 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, inspect brake operation to be sure a firm pedal has been ob...

On 1996 Continental Models Built Prior to 11/1/95, Diagnosis Of ABS Concerns Should Be Done Using The 1995 Continental Diagnostic Information.

Diagnostic Procedure

Ensure the following diagnosis procedures are used in the sequence and step-by-step order indicated. Following the wrong sequence or bypassing steps will only lead to unnecessary replacement of system components and/or incorrect resolution of the problem. The diagnostic procedure consists of five sub-tests: Pre-test Checks, On-Board Self-Tests, Manual Quick Tests, Warning Lamp Symptom Chart and the Diagnostic Tests.

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