[Angdvl089]

I know escorts are known for having soft brake pedals but mine is pretty absurd. I noticed today on the way to work that if I have the brakes applied, the pedal pushes further and further in until it hits the floor. The process takes about 30 seconds and it happens whether or not the clutch pedal is in. Would bleeding the system help? I'm also I need of a new clutch but I don't know if that would have any affect on this. Also the car seems to stop a lot slower than it used to. I replaced the pads and shoes a year ago are I blew a brake line. Any tips or ideas?

Andrew

 

[FordMan59]

Did you bleed the brakes good after blowing the line? It sounds like you may have a line or wheel cylinder leaking letting the pressure bleed off slowly when the brakes are applied.

 

[EscorGo]

Bleeding might help but it sounds like a bad brake master cylinder to me.

FWIW. I don't think the 'scorts inherently have soft pedals. I believe it's an improper maintenance issue. I think it's related more to identifying the route cause and fixing it correctly. My brakes work fine.

 

[Angdvl089]

I didn't fix the line myself I had a shop do it because I didn't want to deal with it. The guy at the shop used compression fittings. I'm wondering if that could be the problem as well?

[EDIT] - Needless to say I'll be replacing the wheel cylinders and bleeding the system as well. Hopefully the bleed helps with my clutch too.

 

[Angdvl089]

So I found out it's the left rear cylinder. Either that or the line that attaches to the cylinder. Is it okay to change just one cylinder or is it a "do both at the same time" ordeal?

Andrew

 

[white-lightning]

If one is leaking the other is soon to follow.

 

[Angdvl089]

If one is leaking the other is soon to follow.

And if one is leaking it's likely that the shoes are covered in fluid correct?

 

[pextor]

shoes should be fine, especially if you just replaced them last year.

 

[EscorGo]

If one is leaking the other is soon to follow.

They are cheap enough and you already have the system open. Consider it a safety issue.
I don't think fluid on the shoes is a problem, it should burn off.

 

[LowGT]

Brake fluid on the shoes is a problem. The brakes will not function to max. ability when covered in fluid. Also it can cause "grabbing" issues and you can lock up the rears easily. If the shoes need replacing due to wear than do that, but if they are fluid soaked just clean them well with plenty of brake clean, compressed air and absorbent rags when replacing both wheel cylinders.

 

[FordMan59]

Unless the brakes are grabbing the shoes shouldn't be hurt. You can replace one cylinder without any problems or you can buy a rebuild kit for it. You could probably rebuild both cylinders for less than the cost of one wheel cylinder and it's a very simple project. Just be sure to clean the bore of the cylinder good before putting the new seals in. I usually run a round wire brush through them a few times and then clean them with brake cleaner. I've never had any problems with leaks using this method. Be sure to check the soft lines going to each wheel I had one bust on me a few years ago. It's possible the line is weak and leaking.

 

[Angdvl089]

Will do. It was rainy today so I'll see where it's leaking from tomorrow.