All models are fitted with the same disc assemblies
at the front and assemblies on the rear wheels. The Series 1 is fitted
with single circuit system and may be fitted with an 'in-line' servo (optional
extra). All other models are fitted with dual-circuit 'brake systems and
a Pressure Differential Warning Actuator
(PDWA),which operates a 'Brake Fail' indicator on the dash,the circuits
being split front and rear. Early Series 2 Vixens had a servo available
as an optional extra,but this became standard in early 1969.The Series
3 using the same unit as a standard fitment.The servo fitted to the Series
2 & 3 is of the 'tandem' type, being fitted between the brake pedal
and master cylinder and not between the master and slave cylinders as on
the Series 1. The location of the brake servo on Series 1 is, to say the
least, random; but the servo on the Series 2 & 3 is always on the drivers
side of the bulkhead with the master cylinder mounted on it. The handbrake
is operated by twin cables leading to the rear drum brakes from the handbrake
lever which is centrally mounted on the transmission tunnel adjacent to
the gear lever.
Maintenance
The braking system should receive careful
and regular service as they can affect the safety of the vehicle. Although
the brakes should undergo thorough checking every 6,000 miles this period
should be reduced in dusty or wet climates, or if the car is regularly
driven very quickly which can cause premature wear of the lining material
or corrosion of the smaller mechanical components.
Front Brake Caliper
Pad Renewal
When the friction pads are reduced to 1/8"
(3 mm.) thickness, or if they are of insufficient thickness to ensure safe
braking for a further 6,000 miles (10,000 km.) then they should be renewed.
It should be noted that the footbrake should not be depressed whilst the
pads are removed or the caliper pistons may be expelled from the calipers
and the system require bleeding.
Apply the handbrake firmly, jack up the front
of the car and remove the front road wheels.
Release the retaining clips(l) and remove
the pad retaining pins(2).
Lift the friction pads(3) and the anti-squeal
shims(4) from the caliper.
Important. Do not depress the brake pedal
with the pads removed.
Clean the exposed faces of the pistons and
the recesses into which the pads fit, then very carefully push the pistons
back into the calipers.
Note. This action will displace fluid back
into the master cylinder reservoir. To prevent over-flowing, syphon off
surplus fluid.
Fit the pads and anti-squeal shims, ensuring
that the arrows on the shims are pointing in the direction of wheel rotation.
Insert the pad retaining pins and secure them
with the spring clips.
Pump brake pedal several times until solid
reistance is felt and check brake fluid level in reservoir.
Replace the front wheels and remove the jack.
Rear Brakes - Adjusting
Each rear brake is provided with an adjuster
which is accessible when the rear road wheel is removed. To adjust the
shoes, turn the adjuster clockwise until the shoes are hard against the
drum, then slacken the adjuster by one notch increments until the drum
is free to rotate.
Handbrake Adjustment
Adjustment of the rear brake shoes, re-adjust
the handbrake mechanism. If cable slacknes remains, re-adjust the handbrake
cables. Do not overtighten cables.
