Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes, likely including metric. Consult your repair manual.
* Hammer: Possibly needed to break loose stubborn parts.
* C-clamp or similar: To compress the brake shoes during reassembly.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* Grease: For lubrication of certain parts (as specified in your repair manual).
* New emergency brake shoes: Make sure you get the correct ones for your vehicle.
* Wire brush: To clean rust and debris.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from injury.
* Repair manual: Crucial for specific torque specifications and procedures.
Steps (General Outline - Refer to Your Repair Manual for Specific Details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake (on the other side if possible, if it works!), and chock the wheels. Use jack stands after lifting the vehicle with the jack. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Access the Brake Drum: On the Grand Marquis, you'll likely need to remove the brake drum. This might require some effort; sometimes a few taps with a rubber mallet around the circumference will help loosen it. If it's stuck, you may need to use a drum puller (available at auto parts stores).
4. Inspect the Brake Mechanism: Once the drum is off, carefully examine the emergency brake system. You should see the brake shoes, the adjusting mechanism (often a star wheel), and the return springs. Take pictures before disconnecting anything.
5. Remove the Old Shoes: Carefully disconnect the return springs and other linkages holding the emergency brake shoes in place. You might need to use a small pry tool to help release them. Note how the springs are positioned; you'll need to reassemble them the same way.
6. Clean the Brake Drum and Shoes: Use a wire brush and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the drum and the brake mechanism. Remove any rust, debris, or old brake material.
7. Install the New Shoes: Carefully install the new emergency brake shoes, ensuring they are seated correctly.
8. Reconnect Springs and Adjuster: Reattach the return springs and other linkages. The adjuster mechanism (star wheel) will likely need to be adjusted; this will allow you to properly adjust the brakes after reassembly. Your repair manual will detail the correct adjustment procedure.
9. Install the Brake Drum: Carefully reinstall the brake drum.
10. Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts (torque to the manufacturer's specifications!), lower the vehicle, and carefully test the emergency brake. You should feel a firm, consistent engagement. If not, you'll need to adjust the star wheel.
11. Final Adjustment: Adjust the emergency brake as needed. Your repair manual will explain the proper procedure. The parking brake should engage firmly but not bind. Over-tightening the adjuster can damage the brakes.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: This is absolutely essential. It will have detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your 1994 Mercury Grand Marquis.
* Safety: Work safely and carefully. Breaks are critical safety components.
* Professional Help: If you are unsure about any part of this process, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly adjusted brakes are a serious safety hazard.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult your repair manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Remember to replace parts in their original positions to avoid issues.
