Inspect the brake rotors each time you replace the brake pads, at a minimum. Check the rotor surface for scoring, nicks and any other damage that may cause the brake linings to wear out prematurely. Your inspection has to go a little deeper than that, however. The rotors have to meet minimum thickness specifications or they are not safe. Many people don't consider the fact that the rotors may warp as well. The result is the car shaking when you apply the brakes. If you find any of these problems when you inspect your rotors, you need to replace them.
Instructions
- 1
Park the vehicle on a level surface and place the wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
2Raise the 4Runner with the automobile jack. Place a jack stand under it near the jacking point and raise it up to the frame. Remove the wheel using the lug wrench. If your 4Runner has ABS brakes, disconnect the sensor from the wheel assembly by unplugging it.
3Remove the brake caliper using a socket and ratchet. Secure the caliper to the strut using a wire tie. Never allow the caliper to simply hang or you will damage the brake lines.
4Pry the grease cap off the wheel hub using the screwdriver. Pull the cotter pin out of the shaft with the pliers. Remove the castellated nut with a wrench. Pull the rotor and wheel hub off the 4Runner. Put the new rotor on and replace the assembly on the SUV.
5Put the castellated nut on the wheel hub and tighten it with a wrench. Put a new cotter pin through the shaft and spread it apart with the pliers. Tap the grease cap on with the rubber mallet. Place the brake caliper on the wheel assembly and tighten the retaining bolts with the socket and ratchet. Plug the ABS sensor into the wheel knuckle if one is present.
6Put the wheel back on the SUV and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the vehicle and lower the SUV back to the ground.
