2001 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.

Continental, Cougar, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, LS, Marauder, Mustang (Except Cobra), Sable, Taurus, Thunderbird & Town Car

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

• On models equipped with air suspension, turn air suspension service switch to Off position.
• On...

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

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 components, clean all components 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 required.

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

Removal

• Raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove brake drum screws, then the brake drum.
• Remove wheel hub as outlined in "Escort, Tracer & ZX2" chassis chapter.
• 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 speci...

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 hydraulic system. Take a reading with the engine Off and the power unit n...

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 ...