Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Brakes 4 questions

Want to replace front pads and turn rotors, but have a few questions...
1. Does anyone from the G.T.A. (Toronto) know where to buy Raybestos parts?
2. The guys at Raybestos website recommends "PDG" series pads, any thots?
3. The guys at Raybestos also ask me, 'if it has 8" or 9" rear drum brakes and if the front pads have a electronic pad wear sensor'? How does that matter?
4. I've been told with only 80k (48000 mi) to only have the rotors "refinished", difference from regular turning is what?

Thanks in advance for any advice. I'm sure I can do the job, actually bought a Chilton, but not the smartest car detective.

1. There is a GTA forum where you can meet your neighbors. They should be able to help you with sources for brake parts.

3 a. Ford didn't do a very good job of cataloging the drum brake application on Contours and Mystiques. You need to remove a drum and measure the opening. Others have posted that you can tell if it is 8" or 9" from the shape of the drum so you might try looking back or doing a search to see if you can find it.

3 b. Electronic sensor is used on some Cougars (and European Mondeos), but not on Contours or Mystiques. If you have a Contour or Mystique you don't have them. If you have a Cougar you might. The Cougar only uses the sensor on one front wheel so you need to check both sides to see if you have a wire coming off one the brake pads.

4. Refinishing is another way of saying turning or machining. The only way to tell for sure if the rotors or drums can be machined is to measure the remaining thickness. Many did need replacement at the miles you have.