When I bought my used '95 Contour the front brakes were wore slap dab out. Beyond metal to metal, they were gouged and warped all to hell. Back brakes were worn but still servicable. I installed new rotors, drums, pads and shoes and called myself bleeding the brakes (no more air came out). Since then (about 9 mo's) it feels like either the MC is not putting out enough pressure or the brakes aren't clamping with their full force. Try as I might I can't lock up the brakes and in a panic stop they stop very poorly. It has a high firm pedal and pumping has no effect.
I have the feeling that the previous damage to the front rotors was caused by them being overused due to the rear brakes not functioning properly, and following up on that thought that the same malfunction of the rear brakes is also causing my present poor braking ????
Could there be a balance or proportioning valve acting up ? I know about the recall on the '96 models rear proportioning valve but Ford says it doesn't apply to the '95 ? Besides I understand that was for a lockup problem ? BTW, this car has moderate to severe road salt damage to the undercarraige.
Any ideas ?
