Brake components check (Every 36 000 miles or 3 years)

1 Inspect the thickness of the friction linings on the disc pads and brake shoes (as described earlier in this Chapter) at the intervals specified.

2 The rigid and flexible hydraulic pipes and hoses should be inspected for leaks or damage regularly. Although the rigid lines are plastic-coated in order to preserve them against corrosion, check for damage which may have occurred through flying stones, careless jacking or the traversing of rough ground.

3 Bend the hydraulic flexible hoses sharply with the fingers and examine the surface of the hose for signs of cracking or perishing of the rubber. Renew if evident.

4 Renew the brake fluid at the specified intervals and examine all rubber components (including master cylinder and piston seals) with a critical eye, renewing where necessary.

    See also:

    Handbrake lever - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Chock the rear wheels, jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle stands. Release the handbrake. Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Slacken the handbrake cable adjuster. ...

    Automatic transmission brake band adjustment (Every 24 000 miles (40 000 km) or 2 years)
    Note: A brake band torque wrench - Ford tool No 17-005, or a conventional torque wrench and a splined socket of suitable size to fit the square section head of the adjuster screw(s) will be requir ...

    Horn switch assembly - removal and refitting
    1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. Switch Models up to 1987 2 Pull the trim insert from the centre of the steering wheel, and disconnect the lead from the horn push. 3 Disconnect the two le ...