Installing disc brakes on the Ford Explorer is easy and something that you should consider doing yourself. You can complete the project in your driveway in about 30 minutes for each wheel, without having to pay high labor costs at a garage. When you change the brake pads, look at the rotor surface carefully to make sure there is no damage on it. If you try to use rotors that are not smooth with new brake pads, the brakes will not be as effective. You will also have to replace them much sooner because they will wear prematurely.
Instructions
- 1
Park the Explorer on a level surface and turn off the key. Place a set of wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Open the engine compartment and siphon enough of the brake fluid from the master cylinder to bring the level to the minimum mark. Put the fluid in the drain pan to recycle it when the project is complete.
2Raise one of the front sides of the Explorer with the automobile jack. Place a jack stand under the SUV and raise it to the frame. Remove the lug nuts from the wheel with the lug wrench and take the wheel off the Ford. Place the c-clamp on the caliper, front to back, and tighten the clamp until the piston seats itself inside the caliper housing.
3Remove the caliper bolts with the socket and ratchet. Pull it off the rotor. Remove the old brake pads and discard them. Insert the new pads and place the caliper on the mounting bracket. Tighten the bolts with the socket and ratchet. Install the wheel on the Explorer and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the Ford and lower the SUV to the ground. Repeat the process to the other front wheel.
4Check the brake fluid after you complete the brake job and add fluid to it as necessary to bring it to the proper level. Pump the brake pedal until it is firm in order to seat the brake pads on the rotors.
