Here's a general overview. This is NOT a substitute for a repair manual specific to your Sable's year and model. Consult your owner's manual or a reputable repair manual (like a Haynes or Chilton manual) for detailed instructions and torque specifications specific to your vehicle. Improper torque can lead to brake failure.
I. Determining Brake Type (Drum or Disc):
* Drum Brakes (Older Sables): These are usually found on older models. They're more complex to service. You'll have to remove a backing plate to access the brake shoes.
* Disc Brakes (Newer Sables): Simpler to replace, only requiring caliper removal and pad replacement.
II. Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Brake caliper pliers or C-clamp (for disc brakes)
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New brake pads or shoes (ensure you get the correct parts for your year/model)
* Possibly a drum brake spring tool (for drum brakes)
* Torque wrench (crucial!)
* Gloves
* Safety glasses
III. General Steps (Disc Brakes):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the front wheels, and securely lift the rear of the vehicle using the jack. Place jack stands under the frame, ensuring the vehicle is stable.
2. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Remove Caliper: Locate the caliper bolts and carefully remove them. You may need to use a C-clamp or caliper compression tool to compress the caliper piston. This is essential to make room for the new, thicker pads. Be careful not to damage the brake lines or the piston seal.
4. Remove Pads: Remove the old brake pads. Inspect the caliper slides and clean them with a wire brush and brake cleaner. Lubricate the slide pins with a high-temperature brake caliper grease (NOT regular grease).
5. Install New Pads: Install the new brake pads.
6. Reinstall Caliper: Reinstall the caliper and bolts, tightening to the manufacturer's specified torque.
7. Reinstall Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts, tightening them in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Lower the vehicle.
8. Pump Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are functioning properly. Have the brakes checked by a qualified mechanic to make sure they are working correctly.
IV. General Steps (Drum Brakes):
1. Follow Steps 1 and 2 from the Disc Brake instructions above.
2. Remove Backing Plate: This usually involves removing several bolts and potentially some other components depending on the year of your Sable.
3. Remove Brake Shoes: This is more involved. You will need to carefully release the retaining springs and adjusters. A drum brake spring tool is often recommended to avoid damaging the springs.
4. Inspect Components: Inspect the brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and other components for wear and tear. If anything is damaged, it needs replacing.
5. Install New Shoes: Install the new brake shoes, carefully reinstalling the springs and adjusters.
6. Reinstall Backing Plate and Wheel: Reinstall the backing plate, wheel, and lug nuts.
7. Adjust Brakes: Drum brakes often need adjustment after servicing. This is done through a mechanism accessible after removing the backing plate. Consult your repair manual for the correct adjustment procedure.
8. Pump Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are functioning properly. Have the brakes checked by a qualified mechanic to make sure they are working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding Brakes: If you've worked on the brake system, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove air from the lines. This is a crucial step to ensure proper braking performance.
* Proper Parts: Use only high-quality brake parts and ensure they are the correct ones for your vehicle's year and model.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake failure can be extremely dangerous.
This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your Mercury Sable's year and model before attempting this repair. Incorrect procedures can lead to brake failure, resulting in serious injury or death. Remember safety first!
