Windstar V6-232 3.8L (1995)
Brake Master Cylinder: Testing and Inspection
Normal/Abnormal Conditions
NORMAL CONDITIONS
The following conditions are considered normal and are not indications that the brake master cylinder is in need of service.
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A slight turbulence in the brake fluid occurring when the brake pedal is released. Turbulence occurs as brake fluid returns to the brake master
cylinder after releasing the brake pedal.
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A trace of brake fluid exists on power brake booster shell below the brake master cylinder mounting flange. This condition results from the
lubricating action of the brake master cylinder booster seal.
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Fluid level will decrease with front brake pad and lining wear.
ABNORMAL CONDITIONS
NOTE: Prior to performing any diagnosis, make sure that the brake system warning indicator is functional.
Changes in brake pedal feel or travel are symptoms that something could be wrong in the brake system. The following conditions use brake pedal
feel and the warning indicator along with brake master cylinder reservoir fluid level, as indicators in diagnosing brake system concerns. The
following conditions are considered abnormal and indicate that the brake master cylinder is in need of service.
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Brake pedal goes down fast. This could be caused by either an external leak or an internal leak.
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Brake pedal eases down slowly. This could be caused by either an external leak or an internal leak.
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Brake pedal is low and/or feels spongy. This condition may be caused by no fluid in the brake master cylinder reservoir, brake master cylinder
filler cap vent holes clogged, rear brake lining out of adjustment or air in the hydraulic system.
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Brake pedal effort is excessive. This may be caused by a bind or obstruction in pedal/linkage or insufficient power brake booster vacuum.
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Rear brakes lock up during light brake pedal force. This may be caused by wrong tire pressure, grease or fluid on linings/damaged linings,
improperly adjusted parking brakes or damaged/contaminated brake pressure control valve.
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Brake pedal effort is erratic. This condition could be caused by power brake booster malfunction or extreme caliper piston knock back or
improperly installed brake pad and lining.
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Brake warning indicator is ON. This may be caused by low fluid level, ignition wire routing too close to fluid level indicator assembly, or float
assembly damage.
NOTE: If CHECK ANTI-LOCK BRAKE indicator comes on, refer to Antilock Brake System/Testing and Inspection for diagnostic procedures.
NOTE: Prior to performing any diagnosis, make sure that the brake system warning indicator is functional.
