Pressure Bleed

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. 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.

CAUTION: Brake fluid is harmful to painted and plastic surfaces. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, immediately wash it with water.

NOTE: When the hydraulic control unit (HCU) or master cylinder 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.

NOTE: Pressure bleed the brake system at 207-345 kPa (30-50 psi).

NOTE: It is not necessary to do a complete brake system bleed if only the disc brake caliper was disconnected.

Clean all the dirt from around the brake fluid reservoir cap and remove the cap. 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.

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 cap and place a box-end wrench on the bleeder screw. Attach a rubber drain tube to the RH rear bleeder screw and submerge the free end of the tube in a container partially filled with clean, specified brake fluid.
Open the valve on the bleeder tank.
Loosen the RH rear brake caliper bleeder screw. Leave open until clear, bubble-free brake fluid flows, then tighten the RH rear bleeder screw.
- Press and release the parking brake 5 times.
- Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid comes out.
Tighten the RH rear brake caliper bleeder screw to 11 Nm (8 lb-ft), remove the rubber hose and install the bleeder screw cap.
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 for the LH rear brake caliper.
- Tighten the LH rear brake caliper bleeder screw to 11 Nm (8 lb-ft).
Continue bleeding the front of the system, going in order from the RH front brake caliper and then to the LH front brake caliper.
- Tighten the front brake caliper bleeder screws to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft).
Close the bleeder tank valve. Remove the tank hose from the adapter and remove the adapter. Fill the reservoir with clean, specified brake fluid and install the reservoir cap.