1998 Ford Escort Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Replacement

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

Except Aspire, Contour, Escort, Mystique, Probe, Tracer, ZX2 & 1997-98 Mustang Cobra

Before removing calipers, mark lefthand and righthand calipers so they can be installed in the same position.

• On Town Car and Continental, turn air suspension service switch off if equipped.
• On all models, raise and support front of vehicle, then ...

Removal

• Raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove brake drum screws, then the brake drum.
• Remove wheel hub.
• Remove brake shoe retracting springs, Fig. , using screwdriver to push in and twist spring to disengage it from pin.
• Remove righthand anti-rattle spring.
• Push and turn brake shoe hold down springs, then remove them.
• Remove primary rear shoe and lining from backing plate, then the secondary shoe and lining.

Installation

• If rear shoes and linings are to be used again, inspect them to ensure they meet specifications.
• Clean backing plate with suitable brake va...

• 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 l...

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

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 hydr...

Replacement

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

Except Aspire, Contour, Escort, Mystique, Probe, Tracer, ZX2 & 1997-98 Mustang Cobra

Before removing calipers, mark lefthand and righthand calipers so they can be installed in the same position.

• On Town Car and Continental, turn air suspension service switch off if equipped.
• On all models, raise and support front of vehicle, then ...

Brake Roughness

Thickness Variation

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. Measure the disc at 12 points with a micrometer at a radius approximately one inch from edge of disc. If thickness measurements vary by more than .0005 inch, replace the Disc.

Lateral Runout

Excessive lateral runout of braking disc may cause a " knocking back" of the pistons, possibly creating increased pedal travel and vibration when brakes are applied.

Wheel Bearing Looseness

Adjust the ...