How to Repair Ford Disk Brakes

Repairing Ford disc brakes can be as simple as replacing the brake pads or involve a more complicated procedure. There are three main components to the Ford braking system. The brake pads require the most frequent attention, while the brake calipers are the least likely component to be serviced. The brake rotors also need attention. The rotors are as involved in the braking process as the brake pads, but unlike the brake pads, they are made of metal. All three of these components can be serviced at the brake service station or repaired by an owner with limited automotive experience.

Instructions

Park the Ford vehicle in an area that allows you to work safely on both sides. Put the transmission in "park," and apply the parking brake. Place tire blocks behind the rear tires. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels with the tire iron.

Put the lifting jack beneath the frame of the Ford vehicle, and lift it until the tires are at least 2 inches clear of the road surface. Place jack stands under the vehicle to support the Ford while you repair the brakes.

Remove the lug nuts and take the wheel off of the wheel bolts. Turn the steering wheel in the direction opposite the side of the Ford on which you will work (to the left for repair of the right brake).

Remove the two caliper bolts with the 13mm wrench. The two bolts are on the inner side of the caliper.

Pull the caliper from the rotor. Disconnect the brake line from the caliper by unscrewing the fastener by hand. The connection for the brake line is between the two caliper bolts, angled upwards. Place the drip pan below the disconnected line to capture any leaking fluid.

Place the new brake pads onto the sides of the new caliper. The pads clip to the caliper by metal clips on the backs of each pad. Connect the brake line to the new caliper.

Pull the rotor from the wheel bolts. Tap the back of the rotor with a hammer if it is stuck to the wheel bolts or steering knuckle.

Spray the new rotor with brake cleaner, and wipe it clean with a cloth towel. Place the rotor onto the wheel bolts, top hat section facing outward. (The top-hat section is the raised ring on the inner surface of the rotor.)

Place the caliper around the new rotor. Replace the caliper bolts, and tighten them with the 13mm wrench.

Turn the steering wheel so that the wheels are pointing forward. Return the wheels onto the wheel bolts, and screw on the lug nuts.

Remove the jack stands and lower the Ford to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts with the tire iron.

Press the brake pedal slowly and hold the pedal down for 5 seconds. Repeat the depressions twice more to inject brake fluid into the new caliper.

Lift the hood of the Ford vehicle. Open the master cylinder cap, located on the driver's side of the vehicle near the windshield. Fill the reservoir with brake fluid until it reaches the "full" line. Replace the cap and close the hood.