How to Replace Rotors on a Mazda B2500

The rotors are the heart of the front disc brakes of the Mazda B2500. If the rotors are bad, they will not work properly to stop the truck. Changing the rotors is straightforward and you can complete the project in your garage or driveway. The job requires no special tools and most toolboxes will already contain the things you need. If you're replacing the rotor, you should take advantage of the repair to replace the brake pads, too. Plan for it to take you about 45 minutes to complete each wheel.

Instructions

1

Open the engine compartment and prop the hood using the prop rod. Remove the lid from the master cylinder by twisting it counterclockwise. Insert the turkey baster and siphon one-half of the brake fluid from the cylinder, if you are planning on changing the brake pads as well as the rotors. Place the fluid in the drain pan for recycling.

2

Place a set of wheel chocks behind the rear wheels of the B2500. Raise the front of the automobile on the side that you are starting with, using the automobile jack. Place a jack stand under the truck near the jacking point and raise it to the frame. Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench and remove the wheel from the Mazda.

3

Loosen the caliper retaining bolts using a socket and ratchet. Remove and discard the brake pads, if you are going to change them. Push the caliper piston inside the caliper housing. Secure the caliper to the strut using a wire tie. Do not allow the caliper to hang by the brake hose or you will stretch and damage it. Remove the brake rotor from the wheel assembly and discard it.

4

Install a new rotor on the wheel assembly. Cut the wire tie securing the brake caliper to the strut with a pair of pliers. Install a new set of brake pads into the caliper. Place the brake caliper on the mounting cradle and secure it by tightening the retaining pins with a socket and ratchet.

5

Install the wheel on the truck and tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the Mazda and lower the truck to the ground. Repeat the procedure on the other wheel. When the project is complete, add enough brake fluid to bring the master cylinder to the proper level. Pump the brakes several times until the pedal feels firm in order to seat the brake pads on the rotors.