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:

    Auxiliary warning system components - removal and refitting
    General 1 This system monitors the fluid levels and front brake pads for excessive wear. In the event of a fluid level dropping below the specified level, or the brake pads wearing down to the mi ...

    Body exterior fittings - removal and refitting
    Spoilers and wheel arch deflectors Removal 1 The spoilers and wheel arch deflectors fitted to XR3, XR3i, Cabriolet and RS Turbo models are secured by screws, rivets and clips, or a combination o ...

    Brake fluid pipes and hoses - removal and refitting
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 To remove a flexible hose, always free it from any mounting bracket(s) first by prising out the U-shaped retaining clip, and then using ...