Q: What is the importance of inspecting the rubber hoses that connect the steel brake lines to the front and rear calipers every six months on Ford Mustang?
A: About every six months, it is important to inspect the rubber hoses that connect the steel brake lines to the front and rear calipers. These hoses are critical components of the brake system and should be thoroughly examined for cracks, chafing, leaks, blisters, or any other damage. To do this, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. If any of the hoses exhibit these conditions, they should be replaced with new ones. When replacing the hoses, use a flare nut wrench to disconnect the metal brake line from the hose fitting, being careful not to bend the frame bracket or brake line. On ABS-equipped models, it is important to plug the metal brake line immediately to prevent air from getting into the hydraulic control unit. Separate the ABS sensor harness from the brake hose and remove the hose bracket from the front strut and chassis for front brakes, or remove the ABS harness connector and unbolt the bracket from the chassis for rear brakes. Remove the banjo bolt from the caliper and discard the sealing washers. Connect the replacement hose to the caliper using new sealing washers and tighten the banjo bolt to the specified torque. Mount the hose bracket to the chassis (and front strut for front brakes) and connect the metal brake line tube nut(s) to the hose fitting by hand, then tighten securely with a flare nut wrench. Attach the ABS brake harness to the brake hose and reattach the ABS harness connector to the rear hose bracket for rear brakes. Ensure that there are no kinks in the hose and that it does not contact any part of the suspension by turning the wheels to extreme left and right positions. If necessary, remove and correct the installation. When replacing brake lines, always use the correct parts and avoid using copper tubing. Prefabricated brake lines with flared tube ends and fittings installed are available and can be securely supported in brackets with sufficient clearance from moving or hot components. After installation, check the master cylinder fluid level and add fluid as necessary. Finally, bleed the brake system and test the brakes carefully before driving the vehicle in traffic.