1996 Ford Thunderbird Owner's Manual - Page 176

Brakes Applying the Brakes Braking non ABS models Your vehicle has standard power front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, (anti-lock disc brakes on all four wheels are optional). They adjust automatically as the brake pads or linings wear down. Apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the "squeeze" technique - push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly. On vehicles without anti-lock brakes, extreme braking can make the wheels lock and slide, possibly decreasing your control of the steering. If you lock the wheels, release the brake pedal and repeat the "squeeze" technique. Braking with ABS brakes On vehicles with anti-lock brakes, the wheels will not lock and slide when you press down hard on the brake pedal. The anti-lock brakes automatically start releasing and reapplying the front brakes independently and the rear brakes together whenever your wheels start to lock. Do not "pump" the brake pedal on vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes. When this happens, you will feel the brake pedal pulse. This "pulse" may be an unfamiliar feeling but it is normal and indicates the ABS is working as designed. Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase your vehicle's stopping distance. Brake rotor damage may also eventually occur. 173