A 1998 Dodge Dakota has a brake structure similar to other American-made vehicles and only requires a few basic tools to repair the brakes. While the tools are simple, it's important to gather everything you need before you get started. Having the tools in front of you makes it easy to concentrate on properly changing the brakes and creating a safe environment for you to work in.
Lug Wrench
When you're working on Dakota brakes, the first thing you have to do is loosen the lug nuts on the back tires. Since the brakes run behind the tires, they need to be removed. Using a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before the truck is lifted, ensures that the tires won't spin during the process. Simply place the head of the lug wrench over the lug nut and turn until the lug nut is approximately halfway off.
Jack and Jack Stands
In order to get to the brakes the car needs to be lifted off the ground. In order to do this safely, you need to have a jack and two jack stands. After you loosen the lug nuts on the rear tires, place the jack under the rear frame of the car and slowly raise the back end high enough for you to get under the car and comfortably work. Next, place a jack stand on either side of the truck to hold it in place. The jack stands give the truck more support and help ensure the vehicle won't fall on top of you.
Wrenches
You need two different wrenches to repair the brakes on a 1998 Dodge Dakota. A 17mm wrench is used to remove the brake caliper bracket. To loosen the bleeder you need a 9mm wrench and to take the caliper apart to replace the brake pads you need a 14mm wrench. A torque wrench is also used to put the tire back on the car, because it ensures the correct amount of pressure is on the lug nuts.
Adhesive
Adhesive is used when you replace the brake pads. While regular adhesive works fine, using an anti-squeak brake adhesive helps you avoid that embarrassing sound new brake pads typically make.
Lubricant
If you're working on the wheel cylinder or brake drum, it's important to have a penetrating lubricant on hand. This should be placed on the brake line that runs from the brake drum to the wheel cylinder and on the brake fitting. The lubricant helps you remove parts and pieces without damaging them.
