2002 Mercury Cougar Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

This system operates on the same principles as conventional front and rear split systems using primary and secondary master cylinders moving simultaneously to exert hydraulic pressure on their respective systems, Fig. .

The hydraulic brake lines on this system, however, have been diagonally split front to rear (left front to right rear and right front to left rear) in place of separate lines to the front and rear wheels.

In the event of a system failure this would cause the remaining good system to do all the braking on one front wheel and the opposite rear wheel, thus maintaining 50%...

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 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 equipme...

Power Booster, Replace

Continental

• Remove battery, then disconnect speed control actuator electrical connector.
• Remove two retaining nuts and speed control actuator cable and position aside.
• Remove two strut tower brace nuts and brace.
• Remove windshield wiper motor, then rubber grommet from lower cowl panel.
• Remove lower cowl panel nut and bolts, then lower cowl panel.
• Disconnect power brake booster check valve, then master cylinder.
• Remove retaining nut and evaporative emission canister purge valve.
• Disconnect EVAP electrical connector, then vacuum hoses.
• Remove instrument close...

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic disc brake systems.

Do not reuse 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.

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. Do not move the tank during the bleeding operation. The tank should be kept at least one third full.

On models equipped with power brakes, exhaust the...

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...