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:

    Oil seals - renewal
    Camshaft oil seal Note: Thread locking compound will be required to coat the camshaft sprocket bolt on refitting. 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Release the timing belt from the camsha ...

    Steering wheel - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 According to model, either pull off the steering wheel trim, prise out the insert which carries the Ford motif at the centre, or carefully prise up and lift off the horn push followed by ...

    Front suspension strut - removal, overhaul and refitting
    Removal 1 Slacken the roadwheel bolts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”), then remove the roadwheel. 2 Support the underside of ...