Rear brake shoe lining check (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)

1 Due to the fact that the rear brake drums are combined with the hubs, which makes removal of the drums more complicated than is the case with detachable drums, inspection of the shoe linings can be carried out at the specified intervals by prising out the small inspection plug from the brake backplate and observing the linings through the hole using a mirror (see illustrations).

17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate
17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate

17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror
17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror

2 A minimum thickness of friction material must always be observed on the shoes. If it is worn down to this level, renew the shoes.

3 Do not attempt to re-line shoes yourself but always obtain factory re-lined shoes.

4 Renew the shoes in an axle set (four shoes), even if only one is worn to the minimum.

    See also:

    Radio/cassette player and graphic equaliser - removal and refitting
    Note: The information in this Section applies to Ford original equipment fitment components. Radio Early models Removal 1 Disconnect the battery. 2 Pull off the control knobs, the tuning knob s ...

    Rear tie-bar (Saloon and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Before attempting to remove a tie-bar, note the location of all washers and bushes. These control the rear wheel alignment and they must be returned to their original locations. 2 Raise ...

    Disc pads - inspection and renewal
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Front disc pads 1 The disc pad friction material can be inspected for wear without removing the roadwheels. Working beneath the vehicle, insert a ...