2000 Ford Escort Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

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 equipped 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 bol...

Vacuum Assist Diaphragm Type

The vacuum assist diaphragm assembly multiplies the force exerted on the master cylinder piston in order to increase the hydraulic pressure delivered to the wheel cylinders while decreasing the effort necessary to obtain acceptable stopping performance.

Vacuum assist units get their energy by opposing engine vacuum to atmospheric pressure. A piston, cylinder and flexible diaphragm utilize this energy to provide brake assistance. The diaphragm is balanced with engine vacuum until the brake pedal is depressed, allowing atmospheric pressure to unbalance the u...

• Inspect components for damage and unusual wear. Replace as required.
• 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 plate ...

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. and . 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 insid...

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...

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 required to prevent brake roughness. In addition, the surface finish must be non-directional and maintained at a micro-inch finish. This is required 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 ...