Materials You'll Need:
* Brake fluid: Use the correct type specified in your owner's manual (DOT 3 or DOT 4 is common). Never use DOT 5 silicone-based brake fluid in a system designed for DOT 3 or 4.
* Clear tubing: Long enough to reach a container.
* Wrench: The correct size to fit your brake bleeder screws (typically 8mm or 10mm). A wrench with a swivel head is helpful.
* Container: To catch the old brake fluid.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To clean up spills.
* Helper: Someone to pump the brake pedal.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashing brake fluid. Brake fluid is corrosive.
2. Locate Bleeder Valves: These are usually located on top of each brake caliper. The rear brakes might be slightly different depending on if you have disc or drum brakes. Consult your repair manual if you are unsure.
3. Preparation: Top off the master cylinder with fresh brake fluid. Don't let it get low during the bleeding process.
4. Bleeding Order: The standard bleeding order is typically rear passenger side, rear driver side, front passenger side, front driver side. This ensures the furthest point gets bled first. However, *consult your owner's manual for the specific order recommended by Lincoln*.
5. Attach Tubing and Container: Attach one end of the clear tubing to the bleeder valve and the other end to your container.
6. Bleeding Process: With your helper firmly pressing the brake pedal several times, then holding it down, open the bleeder valve slightly. You should see brake fluid flow into the tubing and container. Close the bleeder valve once the flow slows or stops. Have your helper release the brake pedal. Repeat this process several times for each wheel.
7. Watch for Bubbles: The goal is to get rid of air bubbles in the brake lines. If you continue to see air bubbles, repeat the process until the fluid runs clear.
8. Check Fluid Level: Keep an eye on the master cylinder reservoir and add more fluid as needed to keep it topped off.
9. Repeat for Each Wheel: Repeat steps 5-8 for each wheel, following the correct bleeding order.
10. Test Brakes: After bleeding all four wheels, have your helper pump the brake pedal several times to check for firmness. If the pedal feels spongy or soft, you may need to bleed the brakes again. Never drive the vehicle until the pedal feels firm.
11. Clean Up: Clean up any spilled brake fluid immediately.
Important Considerations:
* Power-Bleed Systems: Some brake systems have power-bleed tools which connect to a pressure source and automate the process. Using one of these tools would dramatically speed up the bleeding process.
* Vacuum Bleeders: These tools use vacuum to draw the fluid through the system, eliminating the need for a helper.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2000 Lincoln LS is highly recommended. It will have detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle's braking system.
* ABS System: If you have an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), bleeding the brakes can be more complex. Consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure about working on your ABS system.
If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your Lincoln LS to a qualified mechanic. Bleeding brakes improperly can result in a dangerous loss of braking ability.
