Does anyone know if there was a change in the production run in 97 with front brake rotors on a 4X4? I picked up rotors today for my truck and they were the slip on or composite type (rotor and hub being 2 separate parts). When I tore it apart, it looks as if the hub and rotor are one piece (like I would have to pull the spindle nut off to get the rotor off. I hammered on the disc and it wouldn't free up. Yes, I hammered it towards the truck. I talked with Ford and they show it being two separate parts also. The production date on my truck is February 18th 1997. Any insight would be appreciated.

 

hehehehehe ........ sounds like you have the all too common problem of the rotors rusting to the hub. Many guys have damaged the rotors and or sealed hub bearing while beating the rotor off with a sledge hammer. Applying excessive heat can damage everything too. A little heat, penetrating spray, gentle touch with a BFH usually does the trick.

The safer way separate them is to remove the hub/rotor together, take it to a shop with a press, and have them press them appart.

If the truck has over 100,000 miles, you may want to consider replacing the hub/bearing assembly anyway.
Good luck.

 

Does your locking hubs look like this?

 

Thanks KyForGuy, I got it figured out ...