How to Change the Brake Pads on a Mark VIII

The Lincoln Mark VIII uses the Teves Mark IV anti-lock brake system. This non-integral system features a frame-mounted modulator valve assembly and four-wheel control. There are no special bleeding sequences or precautions other than taking care not to clog the system with debris when pushing the caliper piston back into the housing. This repair is well within the capabilities of most home mechanics, and requires no specialized tools to complete.

Instructions

1

Lift the front wheel off the ground with the floor jack and position a jack stand under the frame to support the weight of the vehicle in case it falls. Remove the wheel using the lug wrench and place the wheel and lug nuts out of the way.

2

Remove the two caliper retaining bolts and slip the caliper off the caliper bracket and brake pads. Remove the shims and anti-rattle clips from the old brake pads before discarding the old brake pads.

3

Position the C-clamp onto the caliper, with an old pad between the piston and the clamp. Open the bleeder screw and compress the piston back into the housing by twisting the clamp closed. Catch any spilling brake fluid in the drain pan. This will prevent debris from being pushed into the anti-lock braking system (ABS) on the Lincoln.

4

Install the shims and anti-rattle clips on the new pads, and snap them into place in the caliper bracket. Slip the caliper back onto the bracket and replace the caliper bolts.

5

Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle from the jack and jack stands. Tighten the lug nuts once more.

6

Top off the brake fluid in the master cylinder reservoir and pump the brake pedal several times to expand the caliper.