Late-model Ford Explorer SUV's are manufactured with rear disc brakes, which have a caliper, rotor, and a drum-style parking brake incorporated into the rotor (as there are no cable-operated calipers). Any one of these parts can become damaged or wear out, requiring replacement. The average backyard mechanic can remove the rotor from an Explorer in about 20 minutes.
Preparation
Access to the rear brakes requires the removal of the wheel. The truck can be lifted with a floor jack, then supported with a jack stand if necessary. The floor jack head and stand should be placed on a frame rail, not the body or suspension. Turn all lug nuts counterclockwise and the wheel should come off the hub. Set the wheel aside, and away from the work area.
Caliper
Inspect the brake assembly for damage or wear. The caliper should not be leaking, and the rotor should be smooth and not pitted or scratched. Remove the rear bolts that hold the caliper to the brake assembly by turning them counterclockwise. When they are out, the caliper will slide from the rotor and can be secured to the control arm of the suspension or set there. The caliper should not be allowed to dangle from the brake lines. Check the pads for wear and material thickness.
Rotor
Some models will have a keeper (or spindle) screw holding the rotor in place, which can be turned counterclockwise and removed. The rotor will slide out directly away from the brake assembly, and underneath it are the parking brake pads. The interior of the rotor is the drum surface of the parking brake. The rotor can now be resurfaced or replaced.
