BRAKES

The biggest issue is actually the lack of braking power due to the weedy master cylinder and servo, but apart from carrying out the common swap to larger Mk1 Mondeo items, it’s something owners just have to live with. Excessive handbrake travel is a sign of seized rear wheel cylinders, while a pulling to one side points to a sticky calliper. A vibration under braking means the front discs are warped, but all issues are cheap and easy to rectify – a set of OE specification discs costing no more than £30, callipers circa £50 each and a rear wheel cylinder only £8. Rusty brake pipes can often be revived with the help of a wire brush, but motor factors will be able to supply cheap replacements if required.