1997 Ford Contour Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

On Vehicles Equipped With Anti-Lock Brakes Refer To "Anti-Lock Brakes".

Power Booster, Replace

Aspire

Pump brake pedal several times to exhaust any vacuum in the booster.

• Remove master cylinder as described in the "Hydraulic Brake Systems".
• Disconnect vacuum hose from power brake unit.
• From under instrument panel, remove brake pedal clevis pin, then detach pushrod from brake pedal.
• Remove power brake unit attaching nuts, then remove power brake unit.
• Reverse procedure to install noting the following:
• Ensure proper clearance between pushrod and master cylinder exists as described und...

Master Cylinder Overhaul

Disassemble

• Clean outside of master cylinder thoroughly. Drain brake fluid from master cylinder.
• Remove stop bolt and pressure control valves, if equipped.
• Using a screwdriver, carefully pry up on reservoir and remove it from master cylinder body.
• Remove fluid control valve, if equipped.
• Depress primary piston and remove snap ring from retaining groove at open end of bore.
• Remove primary and secondary piston assemblies from master cylinder. If secondary piston does not come out, apply air pressure to secondary outlet port to remove.

Inspection

When disassembled...

On models with anti-lock brakes, the brake system power booster 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 in the Off position.

After performing any service work, obtain a firm brake pedal before moving the vehicle.

Cougar, Sable, Taurus, Thunderbird & 1997-98 Continental, Mark VIII & Mustang

Removal

On models with air suspension, turn service switch Off before beginning repairs.

• Raise and support rear of vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove bra...

Parking Brake Linings, Replace

Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis & Town Car

1997

The parking brake system is a drum type design mounted in the hubs of the rear brake rotors.

• Raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove caliper as previously outlined, then the rotor assembly.
• Drain differential fluid from axle by removing cover.
• Remove lock bolt from differential pinion shaft, then shaft from differential.
• Push axle shaft inward to access and remove axle shaft C-lock.
• Remove ABS speed sensor, then axle shaft from axle housing.
• Disconnect brake cable from lever, ...

If caliper does not require servicing, do not disconnect brake hose or remove caliper from vehicle. Position caliper aside with wire or tie straps to avoid damaging caliper or hose.

If excessive force must be used to remove the rotor, then it should be inspected for lateral runout before installation.

Removal

• On models with air suspension, turn service switch Off.
• On all models, raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly. Use care to avoid damage or interference with caliper bleeder screw fitting and brake rotor shield.
• Remove caliper anchor bracket bolts. Position...

Remove wheels and inspect brake disc, caliper and linings. Inspect wheel bearings and repack if necessary.

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

If caliper is removed when installing new parts, clean all parts in alcohol, then wipe dry using lint-free cloths. Blow out drilled passages and bores with compressed air. Inspect dust boots for punctures or tears, replace as necessary.

Inspect piston bores in both housings for scoring or pitting. Bores showing light scratches or corrosion can be cleaned with crocus cloth. Bore...