i cant figure out how you get the rear calipers off to change the pads, is there a speical tool or a spring release? has anyone had to do this yet?

 

Actually I just changed all 4 of mine. After loosening and removing the 2 bolts on the inside part of the caliper, I used a rubber mallet and got it off. The rear brakes are extreamly easy compaired to the front ones.
Good luck.

 

After removing the bolts just tap off the calipers using a mallet or wooden block etc. I believe that the top portion swings out first. Before putting on new pads, you must force the piston back into the caliper. In order to do this, the piston must be rotated while applying pressure. A special tool is available. You may be able to use a needle nose pliers. I used a pair of vise grips.

 

Why do they have to be rotated? Are they threaded somehow?

 

These calipers shouldn't have to be rotated in. The only type that requires that are ones that have the parking brake mechanism built into the caliper, like on a Mustang. These trucks have the parking brake seperate, using shoes inside the hat of the drum.

 

The rears need to be rotated in, check the service manual.

Also check this thread: Brake Thread

And a good thread for general info : F150 Brake Thread

Brake Caliper Tool

 

My calipers didn't have to be rotated in, good 'ol C-clamp worked for me. Not rotating required!

 

All I used was a C-Clamp when changing my brakes. Pushed the pistons in and put the new pads in.

 

Those threads are for the past generation f-150's. Like quintin said, the new ones should just push in.

 

I just took a flathead screwdriver and put it between the top of the caliper and the middle of the outer edge of the rotor and pulled very lightly and it popped right out.

I also used a C-clamp to push the pistons in.

 

Previous generation F150s with rear disc brakes didn't need to be rotated in either. That is only for cars that incorporate the parking brake mechanism into the caliper.

 

I believe that you are correct. I have never replaced the disc pads on my F150. I have removed the rotors to fix the drum (parking) brakes but never replaced the pads. I have confused this with my 2000 Mustang GT on which I did replace one rear caliper and the pads on the other side. According to the Haynes repair manual, the piston should be rotated clockwise and align the notches with the opening on the caliper, but this is for a 2000 GT, not a 2004 F150, my apologies.

 

No big deal.