Hello,

I need some help and/or direction about changing the front brake pads of my 1996 F150. I have not changed brake pads before, but have done other basic maintenance on the truck.

I have checked to see if there was a previous thread, but did not see one.

If you can help me (step-by-step with pictures!) would be very much appreciated.

The brakes have just started to grind, don't think (or am not sure) if disks are warped.

Right now only the left front brake needs changing.

Your help is appreciated. Thanks,

Rob

 

Assuming 2WD:
Remove wheel
Unbolt caliper- (2) bolts requires 13mm wrench
Remove caliper from bracket and support with wire so that you do not strain the hose.
Inspect caliper, if OK then:
Remove pads from bracket
Clean pad mounting surfaces with brake cleaner/Scotchbrite
Lube pad mounting surfaces with silicone grease
Install new pads, the outer pad has the spring clips.
Compress caliper piston slowly with c-clamp
Re-install caliper, slide ears on outboard side under spring clips on outer pad.
Install caliper bolts and torque to 25 ft-lbs.

If you have to replace the rotors or rebuild the calipers, get a shop manual. Too much detail for a BB.

 

Thanks SR... I understand everything before 'Remove Wheel' !

I will need some kind of diagram displaying the caliper and bracket assembly and how to compress caliper piston.

Thanks,

Rob

 

Get a shop manual. Haynes, Chilton's or, for more than a few $$ more, Ford Factory

 

I'll take some pictures as I help my buddy do his front disks on his car. Still invest the few bucks in Haynes manual.

Adrianspeeder

 

Well I invested in a Haynes manual today. Took off the tire just to look at the assembly.

A couple more questions for you...

1- What is the purpose of using a C-clamp to push the piston back?
2- I could not see the the caliper support key, nor the bold that threads into the caliper bracket.

3- The image was not clear indicating the caliper support spring and key which is removed.

I did notice that the disc was in good shape. But it had been ground before.

I went to an autoparts store and got some prices on pads, 3 sets ranging from $33 to $79 .

I won't tackle the job until I know everything. But I do know more today than yesterday! Your advice is appreciated.

Rob Widdup

 

As the pads and rotors wear, the piston moves further out of the caliper housing. When you put on new thicker pads and/or rotors, you need to push the piston back to allow enough clearance for re-assembly.

Caliper support key? Not on my F150

There are 2 bolts per caliper. They mount from the inside. The heads are visible against the inner surface of the caliper.

 

Great reference...
http://www.supermotors.net/vehicles/registry/2742/12739

 

I would recommend taking your rotors into a shop you trust to have them turned, also they can pack the bearings for you too!