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:

    Engine coolant renewal (Every 36 000 miles (60 000 km) or 3 years)
    Caution: Before proceeding, note the precautions given in Chapter 3, Section 1. 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 It is preferable to drain the cooling system with the engine cold. If thi ...

    Front suspension strut - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Note: A spring compressor tool will be required if the strut is to be dismantled. Removal 1 Loosen the relevant front roadwheel nuts, apply the handbrake, jack up the front of the vehicle and sup ...

    Timing belt and sprockets - removal and refitting
    Note: The belt tension should be checked using Ford special tool No 21-113 after refitting. A suitable puller may be required to remove the sprockets. If the camshaft sprocket is removed, a new re ...