1998 Mercury Sable Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Disc brake service is 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 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,...

Brake Roughness

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 the edge of the disc. If thickness measurements vary by more than .0005 inch, replace ...

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

Removal

• Remove rear disc brake caliper assembly as described under " Caliper Service." Do not disconnect flexible hose unless caliper requires service. Support caliper with wire or tie strap so flexible hose is not stretched or twisted.
• Remove rear disc support bracket to wheel knuckle bolts, then the rear disc support bracket and brake shoes and linings.
• Remove two nuts, then the rotor from rear hub.

Installation

• If installing new rotor, remove protective coating from rotor with suitable carburetor cleaner.
• Lub...

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic disc brake systems.

Do not use brake fluid drained from the hydraulic system when bleeding the brakes. Ensure disc brake pistons are returned to their normal positions and the shoe and lining assemblies are properly seated. Before driving the vehicle, inspect the brake operation.

Do not shake the pressure bleeder tank while air is being added or after it has been pressurized. This will prevent air from the tank getting into the lines. Set the tank in the required location, then bring the air hose to the tank. Do not move the ta...

Single Piston Calipers

The caliper assembly consists of a pin sliding caliper housing, inner and outer shoe and lining assemblies and a single piston, Figs. through . The caliper slides on two pins which also act as attaching bolts between caliper and the combination anchor plate and spindle. The outer brake shoe and lining assembly is longer than the inner brake shoe and lining assembly. Inner and outer shoe and lining assemblies are attached to the caliper by spring clips riveted to the shoe surfaces. The inner shoe is attached to the caliper by installing the spring clip to the i...