How to Change the Brake Pads on a 1991 Isuzu Trooper

The brake pads on a 1991 Isuzu Trooper are located on the front axle between the brake calipers and the brake discs. These pads wear over time and are designed with a thin metal strip that will contact the brake disc when the pads need replacing. If you hear a grinding coming from the front of your Trooper it is likely the pads are worn beyond safety tolerances. If you suspect the pads are worn you should check them immediately, as this metal strip can gouge the brake discs if the pads are not replaced.

Instructions

Removing the Front Wheels

1

Remove one-half of the fluid from the brake master-cylinder reservoir using an old turkey baster. You can never use the turkey baster for food preparation again.

2

Place wood blocks before and behind both of the rear wheels.

3

Loosen all of the lug nuts on both front wheels one full turn, using a lug wrench.

4

Position a floor jack underneath the front axle differential and raise the front of the vehicle. Then support with axle stands placed underneath the axle.

5

Unscrew the lug nuts on both the front wheels, using a lug wrench.

6

Lift the front wheels off the hubs and set them out of the way.

Removing the Brake Pads

7

Unscrew the two bolts that secure the brake caliper to the caliper bracket, using a socket. These bolts will be located on the inboard side of the brake disc.

8

Lift the brake caliper off the disc with your hand, but do not allow the caliper to hang from the rubber brake hose. Doing so could damage the hose. Instead, secure the caliper to the vehicle's frame using a plastic wire tie.

9

Pull the brake pads from the caliper using your hand. Be sure the shims come out with the pads.

10

Pull the spring clip from the top of the caliper.

Replacing the Brake Pads

11

Position a brake-pad spreader inside the brake caliper, then screw the handle of the spreader clockwise to drive the piston into the caliper.

12

Reinsert the spring clip into the top of the brake caliper.

13

Position the shims behind the new brake pads and insert the pads into the caliper.

14

Lower the caliper onto the brake disc.

15

Screw in the bolts that secure the brake caliper to the caliper bracket.

Reinstalling the Wheels

16

Lift the front wheels onto the hubs. Screw the lug nuts onto the wheel studs and tighten using a lug wrench.

17

Lower the front of the vehicle.

18

Retighten the lug nuts on the front wheels using a lug wrench.

19

Add fresh, clean brake fluid to the master-cylinder reservoir until the fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines.