Section 06-06: Brake System, Hydraulic | 1994 Mustang Workshop Manual |
ADJUSTMENTS
Brake Pedal Linkage
The power brake booster (2005)
has an adjustable push rod (output rod, Bendix design
only) which is used to compensate for dimensional variations in an assembled power brake booster
. The push rod length is adjusted after each power brake booster
has been assembled in production. A
properly adjusted push rod that remains within the power brake booster
after it was assembled in production should never
require a service adjustment.
A power brake booster
that is suspected of having an improper push rod length
will indicate either of the following:
- A push rod which is too long will prevent the master cylinder piston from
completely releasing hydraulic pressure and cause brakes to drag.
- A push rod which is too short will increase brake pedal travel and cause
a clunk or groaning noise from the power brake booster
.
If necessary, booster push rod length can be verified with a push rod
gauge using the following procedure:

- Without disconnecting the brake tubes, disconnect the brake master cylinder (2140)
and set it away from the power brake booster
. The brake master cylinder
must be supported to prevent damaging the brake tubes.
- With the engine idling, gauge and adjust the push rod length. A force of
approximately 22 N (5 lb) applied to push rod with the gauge will ensure that
push rod is seated with power brake booster
.

- Install the brake master cylinder
on the power brake booster
unit. Gradually alternate the tightening of the
retaining nuts to 21-29 Nm (16-21 lb-ft).
- With the engine idling and the brake master cylinder filler cap (2162)
removed, observe the fluid surface in the brake master cylinder reservoir (2K478)
when the brake pedal (2455)
is applied rapidly. Some fluid movement
should occur in the forward brake master cylinder reservoir
. If fluid surface movement did not occur, the push rod
is adjusted too long and the procedure must be repeated to prevent eventual
brake drag.