Pressure Bleeding

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Do not use any fluid other than clean brake fluid meeting manufacturer's specification. Additionally, do not use brake fluid that has been previously drained. Following these instructions will help prevent system contamination, brake component damage and the risk of serious personal injury.

WARNING: Carefully read cautionary information on product label. For EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION seek medical advice. In the USA or Canada on Ford/Motorcraft products call: 1-800-959-3673. For additional information, consult the product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) if available. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Do not allow the brake master cylinder to run dry during the bleeding operation. Master cylinder may be damaged if operated without fluid, resulting in degraded braking performance. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

NOTE: Do not spill brake fluid on painted or plastic surfaces or damage to the surface may occur. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, immediately wash the surface with water.

NOTE: When any part of the hydraulic system is disconnected for repair or installation of new components, air can get into the system and cause spongy brake pedal action. This requires bleeding of the hydraulic system after it is correctly connected. The hydraulic system can be bled manually or with pressure bleeding equipment.

All vehicles

Clean all dirt from and remove the brake master cylinder filler cap and fill the brake master cylinder reservoir with clean, specified brake fluid.

Fig 1: Identifying Brake Master Cylinder Fluid Reservoir Cap And Max Fill Line

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Master cylinder pressure bleeder adapter tools are available from various manufacturers of pressure bleeding equipment. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer when installing the adapter.

Install the bleeder adapter to the brake master cylinder reservoir and attach the bleeder tank hose to the fitting on the adapter.
- Pressure bleed the brake system at 207-345 kPa (30-50 psi).

NOTE: Bleed the longest line first. Make sure the bleeder tank contains enough clean, specified brake fluid to complete the bleeding operation.

Remove the RH rear brake caliper bleeder screw cap and place a box-end wrench on the bleeder screw. Attach a rubber drain hose to the bleeder screw, and submerge the free end of the hose in a container partially filled with clean, specified brake fluid.

Fig 2: Locating Rubber Drain Tube On Bleeder Screw

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Open the valve on the bleeder tank.
Loosen the RH rear bleeder screw and leave open until clear, bubble-free brake fluid flows into the container. Wait 15 seconds after clear, bubble-free fluid flows through the rubber hose.
Tighten the RH rear bleeder screw to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS . Remove the rubber hose and install the bleeder screw cap.

Vehicles equipped with a 4.0L SOHC or 4.6L (3V) engine

Continue bleeding the system in the following sequence:
1. LH rear brake caliper bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
2. RH front brake caliper bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
3. LH front brake caliper bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .

Vehicles equipped with a 5.4L engine

Continue bleeding the system in the following sequence:
1. LH rear brake caliper bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
2. RH front brake caliper inner bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
3. RH front brake caliper outer bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
4. RH front brake caliper inner bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
5. LH front brake caliper inner bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
6. LH front brake caliper outer bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .
7. LH front brake caliper inner bleeder screw
  - Tighten to specifications. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .

All vehicles

Close the bleeder tank valve and release the pressure. Remove the tank hose from the adapter and remove the adapter. Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir with clean, specified brake fluid if necessary. Install the brake master cylinder filler cap.