When replacing the brake pads on a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4, always check the rotor thoroughly for heavy grooving that would prevent the pads from making 100 percent contact with the rotor. Measure the rotor with a dial caliper or micrometer to check serviceability. The minimum thickness on this rotor is 1.334 inch. If the rotor is at or below this thickness it must be discarded. To machine the rotors, deduct 30 thousandths from the measurement, which will account for the material taken off in machining. Disc brake pads are made of asbestos, which causes cancer. It is a good idea to rinse the brakes off with brake cleaner to prevent dust.
Instructions
- 1
Loosen all the lug nuts one full turn counterclockwise using the lug wrench. Raise the front of the truck with the floor jack and place jack stands under the frame. Lower the truck so it rests on the stands. Remove the lug nuts and the wheels.
2Open the bleeder screw one turn with a wrench. The bleeder screw is located on the top inside of the caliper. Pry the inside brake pad away from the rotor by placing the screwdriver between the rotor and the inside pad. This pushes the caliper piston back into its bore. Close and tighten the bleeder screw.
3Using a No. 47 torx bit, remove the two caliper bolts. Lift the caliper off the rotor and hang it from the front spring with a suitable piece of wire. Do not allow it to hang from the brake hose. Remove the brake pads from the caliper mounting bracket. They are held tight by the anti-rattle springs. These springs are located on each side of the bracket under the ends of the brake pads. They are not interchangeable. Remove the caliper mounting bracket. Pull the rotor straight off the wheel hub studs. Install the rotor in the same fashion, just push it straight on the hub studs.
4Install the caliper mounting bracket, and torque the bolts to 210 foot-pounds with the torque wrench. Remove and replace the anti-rattle clips with the new ones provided. Spread a little anti-seize compound on their faces. Spread a little anti-seize compound on both caliper bolts.
5Install the brake pads on the mounting bracket. Slide them from the outside in over the anti-rattle clips. Squeeze the pads against the rotor. Lower the caliper over the pads and align the holes in the caliper with those in the mounting bracket. Insert the bolts and torque them to 38 foot-pounds.
6Install the wheels and tighten the lug nuts as much as possible with the tire off the ground. Lower the truck. Torque the lug nuts to 120 foot-pounds.
7Raise the hood and remove the master cylinder reservoir cap. Fill the reservoir as necessary to bring it to the proper level marked on the side of the reservoir. Replace the cap. Start the truck and pump the brakes slowly ten times before attempting to move the truck.
