Escort Brake Problems

[clappedoutescort]

Hey folks got a 98 escort with 1.6 zetec and front disc brakes. Having problems with the brake system basically binding. I have progressively replaced 1 x flexible hose (thought it might be culprit and only offside wheel getting hot although braking was even) then 2 x front callipers (which were in bad shape with failed brittle seals) and now the master cylinder. Now while my brakes are much better they are still slightly binding - not enough to overheat or effect braking effort but noticeable when slowly coming to a stop or releasing brakes on a slope etc (slow to release). However sometimes they seem fine.

Sometimes they are worse than others and I am wondering if temperature has an effect? I am pretty sure I purged all the old fluid out when changing the cylinder too, so ruled out moisture as a culprit..

Would appreciate and further ideas...

Olly.

[jimbo55]

Hey folks got a 98 escort with 1.6 zetec and front disc brakes. Having problems with the brake system basically binding. I have progressively replaced 1 x flexible hose (thought it might be culprit and only offside wheel getting hot although braking was even) then 2 x front callipers (which were in bad shape with failed brittle seals) and now the master cylinder. Now while my brakes are much better they are still slightly binding - not enough to overheat or effect braking effort but noticeable when slowly coming to a stop or releasing brakes on a slope etc (slow to release). However sometimes they seem fine.

Sometimes they are worse than others and I am wondering if temperature has an effect? I am pretty sure I purged all the old fluid out when changing the cylinder too, so ruled out moisture as a culprit..

Would appreciate and further ideas...

Olly.

Have you checked all surfaces pads are in contact with and that it is not just the pads which are failing to release cleanly? Sounds obvious but the first time it happened to me I was looking at the same things as you have. Some times other makes of pads are just a fraction bigger or poorer finished and the backplate needs a dress with a file along the edges.

[lublin]

Hey folks got a 98 escort with 1.6 zetec and front disc brakes. Having problems with the brake system basically binding. I have progressively replaced 1 x flexible hose (thought it might be culprit and only offside wheel getting hot although braking was even)

Check that the disc hasn't warped as this will make your brakes intermittently bind as the warped part/parts rub on the pads. Jack the wheel, that used to get hot, up and spin it by hand and see if it is free then binds, free then binds, if it is like this then it's a warped disc. Always replace the discs(not very expensive or a difficult job)in pairs.

[clappedoutescort]

@lublin thanks but there is definitely no warpage.

@Jimbo55 Thanks I will check that, but... The f*ck*ng water pump decided to empty coolant contents and I now have a warped head as there is vapour coming out of the exhaust arhhhhhh! RAD weld got me home with RAC in tow but when parked up the pump drained the entire contents again!!!

Not worth sending to the garage so before I call the tow truck for it's final journey I am going to get my Haynes manual out and dust down them tools once again. Wish me luck!

[jimbo55]

Here's wishing you luck!

[clappedoutescort]

Here's wishing you luck!

Ta mate, haven't actually got to the head yet partly the weather and other things so no car now for a week! Quite hard when kids are involved!

Hopefully head will come off tomorrow weather permitting...