2003 Ford Mustang Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

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

If the caliper is cracked or fluid leakage through the casting is evident, it must be replaced as a unit.

If caliper was removed when installing new components, clean all components in alcohol, then wipe dry using lint-free cloths. Using an air hose, blow out drilled passages and bores. Inspect dust boots for punctures or tears. If punctures or tears are evident, install new boots during assembly.

Inspect piston bores in both housings for scoring or pitting. Bores showing light scr...

Battery Ground Cable

Prior to service, disconnect battery ground cable and isolate as required.

System Depressurizing

On models equipped with anti-lock brakes, hyd...

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...

Continental, Cougar, LS, Mustang, Sable & Taurus

Sliding caliper rear disc brakes are used on these models. The caliper is basically the same as the larger front wheel caliper. However, a parking brake mechanism and a larger inner brake shoe anti-rattle spring have been added.

The parking brake lever, located at the rear of the caliper, is actuated by a cable system similar to rear drum brake applications. When the parking brake is applied, the cable rotates the lever and operating shaft, driving the caliper piston and brake shoe assembly against the rotor. An automatic adjuster in th...

Pressure bleeding is recommended for all hydraulic brake systems. Ensure all dirt and contaminants are removed from master cylinder area prior to removing reservoir cap.

To prevent air from the pressure tank getting into the lines, do not shake the tank while air is being added to the tank or after it has been pressurized. Set the tank in the required location, bring the air hose to the tank, and do not move it during the bleeding operation. The tank should be kept at least one-third full.

On vehicles equipped with disc brakes and master cylinders without proportioners or press...

Pushrod

Proper adjustment of the master cylinder pushrod is necessary to ensure proper operation of the power brake system. A pushrod that is too long will prevent the master cylinder piston from completely releasing hydraulic pressure, eventually causing the brakes to drag. A pushrod that is too short will cause excessive brake pedal travel and cause groaning noises to come from the booster when the brakes are applied. A properly adjusted pushrod that remains assembled to the booster with which is was matched during production should not require service adjustment. However, if the b...